I am attempting to remove the very old thru-hulls from a Dreadnought 32. I went to Hamilton Marine and got a tool specifically for thru-hulls. It looks like sort of like a step-tapered reamer.
Anyway when I inserted the tool and attempted to unscrew the thru-hull, the tabs on the inside of the thru-hull simply stripped off.
Any ideas on the best way to remove old thru-hulls?
Removing thru-hulls
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In my experience, that tool is best used as a holder (preventing the thru hull from turning) rather than as a wrench. The turning part is best done on the inside at the nut. Anyway, it sounds like the bronze has degraded to the point that reusing the fitting isn't really in the cards. So don't be bashful.
I'd start with a mapp gas torch and a big honkin pair of vise-grips.
Failing that, it's time for the sawzall. Two or three longitudinal cuts from the inside out (like removing a stuck cutless bearing) should achieve separation from the nut. Once the nut is gone, it's hammertime.
I'd start with a mapp gas torch and a big honkin pair of vise-grips.
Failing that, it's time for the sawzall. Two or three longitudinal cuts from the inside out (like removing a stuck cutless bearing) should achieve separation from the nut. Once the nut is gone, it's hammertime.