Honda 2.3, seized transom bracket screws

Skylark

Skylark

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I have a Honda 2.3 hp outboard and it’s been stored in my shed for around 15 years.

For no particular reason, I’ve had a look at it today with the view to bringing back to life.

All so far seems ok and almost ready for me to pull the chord ?

One issue is that both steel screws to hold the engine to the transom are seized solid within the aluminium cast bracket.

I’ve sprayed them liberally with Plus Gas and I’m happy to wait, repeat etc until they move.

Does the panel have any other suggestions to free them without risking damage?

The infamous steel bolts have surface rust but they’re not in bad condition as I greased the heads prior to storage. I’ve no idea if they will undo, not that I’m planning to try………If I did, what’s the recommended process of removal and are kits of stainless steel replacement bolts still available?

Many thanks in advance.
 
There was a thread earlier about a homemade freeing agent consisting of auto transmission oil mixed 50 50 with acetone. Might be worth trying that or finding the thread. I would search but struggle when using the tablet.
 
Boathook said:
There was a thread earlier about a homemade freeing agent consisting of auto transmission oil mixed 50 50 with acetone. Might be worth trying that or finding the thread. I would search but struggle when using the tablet.
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I wouldn't bother with home made potions. Just use Plus Gas and a lot of patience.
 
Had this last year, although my engine had only been sitting for 6 months.

It was cleared with a few kettles of boiling water and applications of plusgas in between.

You have reminded me that I need to exercise these on my own engine, and give them a few twists.
 
I had read hondas were prone to rusting bolts ? Seems it’s true . Did it start after 15 years? Anyone tried starting an old unused Seagull outboard ? Curious to know if it’s possible to renovate the bolts ?
 
Fuel isn’t my problem as I have some smart stuff in a blue plastic can for professionals and tend to use in lawnmower in winter cut but I just wondered whether it was worth starting to clean the carb etc? Maybe there is a utube video -it dates from the age of centaurs so maybe there is a market out there as it seems a shame to leave it languishing .
 
Day 2. More Plus Gas spray and a couple of cycles of boiling water. They are still refusing to budge using a 10 inch Stilson to increase torque ☹️

I may try gas heat but want to avoid paint discolouration or burning on the bracket.

Not tried to start it yet as I need it secure, which I can’t do until the bracket screws free.

The bolts underneath the engine, albeit rusty, still have clearly formed hex heads and a socket is a snug fit. Current thought is “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”


Laysula said:
Shove it back in the shed for another 15 years. :)
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Probably good advice, thanks, Steve. No doubt you remember the engine? It was Nick’s and I had it from him when he took yours. Keep it in the family ? That must be 10 to 15 years ago. I’ve never started it since having it. I simply serviced it and put it away. My little Tohatsu remains my outboard of choice ?
 
You might consider dismantling the mounting bracket in one piece and submerging this in a bucket of ( lotion of choice ) for ( time period of choice )
Time is your friend here
 
Blueboatman said:
You might consider dismantling the mounting bracket in one piece and submerging this in a bucket of ( lotion of choice ) for ( time period of choice )
Time is your friend here
Click to expand...
That’s a brilliant suggestion, didn’t think of it, thank you. The bracket is easily removed as it’s held in place by a single, long bolt. It then splits into RH and LH castings by removing another bolt. Very simple.

I’ve found a original tin of Plus Gas, must be 40+ years old. The liquid inside looks very different to the up to date spray cans, so for now I’ll continue to apply to the threads and let gravity lend a hand. Next step if this doesn’t help after a few days will be to make a suitable bath and use my alchemy skills to make some snake oil.
 
Skylark said:
Day 2. More Plus Gas spray and a couple of cycles of boiling water.
Click to expand...
I really swear by boiling water - apart from anything else, it's cheap and low-effort.

Admittedly I only learned of the method on here a few years ago, but it has always worked for me. I was astonished at its efficacy.

However it has always taken several kettles full, which I usually apply over the course of a couple of days. It's probably mostly laziness that I make some of the applications one right after another, and then leave it overnight before resuming, but probably also some superstition that this is the best way. I suppose this might help the plus gas penetrate better.

I would have a little patience with the hot water before giving in to more aggressive methods. Keep trying a little longer than you think.
 
Good advice, @KompetentKrew , thank you for the encouragement. It's been in my shed for years and I'm not really sure what triggered me to drag it out so I can't claim to be in a hurry. More soaking in Plus Gas and hot water cycles over the next few days. Removing the bracket will probably now help a lot, too.

IMG_1749.jpg
 
I’ve found a very old pressure cooker and the two brackets just fit inside. Cooked them for just a few minutes this morning as a trial. One bracket has turned about 5-10 degrees (sounded awful as it ground to a halt), the other one as yet still refuses to budge.

One of the problems is holding. There are no parallel edges on the bracket so grip is challenging, especially without leaving unsightly jaw marks.

I’m now using model aero engine fuel as my snake oil. Methanol is very “thin” plus it contains a light oil for lubrication.

A bit of progress but still a long way to go ?
 
Pleased to report that all is now well, screws turn in and out easily over their entire length without even a hint of binding.

15 minutes in a pressure cooker with water and a spoonful of cooking oil. ?

Black and Decker workmate together with a few wooden packing pieces held the bracket firm and 10 inch Stilson turned the screw.

I planned to put in fresh oil and some fuel to see if it starts but rain stopped play. Well, it is Manchester and it has a reputation to uphold.

Thanks to all for help, suggestions and advice.
 
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