Death Bolt

33JS · 23 April 2021, 14:10

I was reading (scaring myself with) this thread:
https://www.thehulltruth.com/boating...eath-bolt.html

So, decided to check mine whilst sorting some steering arm corrosion. The joint on mine was completely seized. Tried a bit of 'light' hammering and still nothing! If it fails, engine may suddenly turn full lock flipping the boat. Only option, £50 worth of security...

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trevbouy · 24 April 2021, 10:37

The link doesn't work for me.

Which joint? The spherical bearing?

Cheap easy fix, cut off the original, then thread rod end, screw on new joint and locknut.

Matt · 26 April 2021, 23:11

Ah. The Jesus Bolt.

Yes, don't compromise, always keep all components of that tie bar assembly in good order. There's lots of bits that can fail on a boat that are just inconvenient, but that bolt/bar are very critical. Also be aware of the spec of the bolt - I seem to remember some are "special", although can't remember my source now. Either way, it's one of 2 bolts on a motor that I'd go exactly as per OEM.

The other OEM bolt is the transom mount bolts on big motors. Proper 1/2" UNF, not M12, typically - just follow OEM spec precisely.

33JS · 11 May 2021, 18:51

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matt

Ah. The Jesus Bolt.

Yes, don't compromise, always keep all components of that tie bar assembly in good order. There's lots of bits that can fail on a boat that are just inconvenient, but that bolt/bar are very critical. Also be aware of the spec of the bolt - I seem to remember some are "special", although can't remember my source now. Either way, it's one of 2 bolts on a motor that I'd go exactly as per OEM.

The other OEM bolt is the transom mount bolts on big motors. Proper 1/2" UNF, not M12, typically - just follow OEM spec precisely.

Thanks, I've installed the brand new one. Properly lubed with 2 stroke oil... One for the regular inspections.

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33JS · 11 May 2021, 18:57

Here's the link to the video that scared the hell out of me. https://youtu.be/lnJ28FGRQFs

gtflash · 15 May 2021, 21:12

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matt

Ah. The Jesus Bolt.

Yes, don't compromise, always keep all components of that tie bar assembly in good order. There's lots of bits that can fail on a boat that are just inconvenient, but that bolt/bar are very critical. Also be aware of the spec of the bolt - I seem to remember some are "special", although can't remember my source now. Either way, it's one of 2 bolts on a motor that I'd go exactly as per OEM.

The other OEM bolt is the transom mount bolts on big motors. Proper 1/2" UNF, not M12, typically - just follow OEM spec precisely.

ARP bolt?

Matt · 15 May 2021, 21:53

I’m not actually a particular fan of ARP.
They do make good bolts, the main caps and big ends on my motor are theirs.

But the rest I’ve bought have all been shorter than I’m happy with - only engaging a few threads.

Anyway, I’d recommend buying the right bolt, which could be an ARP one, I dunno. But also use common sense too.