Removing switch/gauge panels - what the hell...

[Boat Hound]

I have an 04 265Express and had to get behind the switch and gauge panel. I broke just about every screw that I did not strip getting them off. It seems like the nut inserts where aluminum, and the screws SS, they were in there like no ones business. I even spun a few of the inserts. I drilled out a few of them, but really what the hell.

Has anyone had this same issue? And what did you do to fix and make sure this was not an issue again?

 

[Blackbird]

I feel your pain. I have an 05 283. I wanted to remove the panel, broke the first 2 screws and quit. Don't know what the story is but that's the last time I'll try that.

John B.

 

[georgemjr]

New inserts, plenty of grease on the threads

 

[Boat Hound]

I feel your pain. I have an 05 283. I wanted to remove the panel, broke the first 2 screws and quit. Don't know what the story is but that's the last time I'll try that.

John B.

Until you have to :wink:

 

[NOTHING ELSE MATTERS]

Try loosen the screws or bolts by a hand screwdriver and NOT an electric or cordless drill, too much torque instantly.

 

[Boat Hound]

No electric driver used, it was by hand.

 

[Blackbird]

I was using a hand screw drive also.

 

[dduflo]

Try placing the screwdriver on the screw and lightly tapping it with a hammer to break the bond that may be caused be a little corrosian. Putting some counterclockwise pressure on the screwdriver might just work. Good luck

 

[mskulick]

Use a good penetrant now (PB Blaster, Liquid Wrench, Zep45, etc.) and again in a few days. Then use a punch and hammer to jar things somewhat. Then spray again. Couple days later try again. Wet the tip of the Phillips and dip in Comet or Ajax to keep it from slipping. Good luck. If they break off, take the panel out and use vise grips from the back to turn them out as though you were tightening the screws into the panel. In other words, turn them out from the back side. Hope this helps...
Regards,
Mike