2005 Mercury Optimax 250 xs Trim Tab

[RobNJ]

I want to change the impeller on my Optimax and got the 4 3/4” nuts off of the sport master lower unit.
However when I tried to remove the bolt that holds the trim tab anode on I don’t know what size socket to use. I’ve tried several sizes including 1/2, 7/16, 3/8, 10mm, 11mm, 12mm etc. The bolt head appears to be almost flat with little to grab onto and it’s very difficult to see through the hole. Does anybody know what size socket to use for the trim tab anode bolt? I don’t want to have to drill holes in the anode and chisel it off so I can get to the lower unit bolt that’s behind it.

[JOE54]

should be 1/2 six point , check see if cavity is fouled with sand

[RobNJ]

I took a closer look and it was an allen head bolt.

[JOE54]

suppose to be hex hex 1/2 ,you make absolutely positive that allen head bolt is installed under that trim tab also , don't run it without it in there

[RobNJ]

I didn’t have my sae socket set so I used a 9 hex bit for the anode bolt and 10 hex bit for the bolt going into the lower unit. Yes the bolt under the trim tab was there. I will make sure I reinstall it when I’m done replacing impeller. Should an opti be in neutral or forward when I remove the sport master lower unit? I’ve heard arguments for both.

[Savage]

Neutral

[SilverFox579]

Neutral

+1!