Lower unit zinc trim tab stripped cant remove lower unit

[ultrasport]

Trying to change my waterpump. Went to drop lower unit but bolt holding the zinc trim tab is stripped so I can not remove zinc to access the bolt underneath. Anyone have suggestions. Figuring I will have to drill out the bolt from top?

 

[Striperswiper]

I think I'd drill it from the bottom up instead.
The zinc is softer than the bolt and will split at the threads when you get it drilled.
Capt Brian

 

[ultrasport]

Yea but dont know exactly where to drill from bottom of Zinc cant see exactly where bolt hole is.

 

[ultrasport]

Yea drilled out zinc from bottom up that worked thanks

 

[boat25]

Try to cut zinc with die grinder, either with burr or cut off wheel. Try unscrewing while pulling down on zinc with vicegrips .

 

[Striperswiper]

Glad that worked for you.
For anyones future reference, just buy the new zinc and then look at the location of the threads for the bolt.
That will tell you where to drill.
Capt Brian