Found(2nd time) loose mounting bolts between JP and boat (lower 2 on either side). One so loose I gained about 3 full turns when i re-tightened. Just wondering if mild loosening over time with hydro JPs and bigger motors is normal and I need to check more often or do I need to look at replacing lock nuts or double-nutting??
I have to retighten every bolt on my motor and Jackplate every other week or so…I also keep a close eye on the HYD steering linkage bolts….Generally I find a couple of loose bolts on every pass…I run on LSC and Erie and have a few friends that have had their motors come unbuttoned…I dont want any part of that…..
Oh hey! Had a tournament partner get flagged down for “something not looking right” by another driver while we were driving him AFTER a derby…..we pulled over….3 nuts GONE. One half backed out…..looked at me and said “yeah….I have been noticing a little wobble back there. Didnt think it was a big deal.” I shat. Since then I carry those wrenches with me. Mine can be tightened every few months.C.O.D. Jr. III
That was someone trying to steal that engine,,,, nylock nuts dont come off, period ! And i had wrenches,,,,,,,you were the one tightening with a lug wrench ! Also, you gotta consider the owner/operator on that instance !
hmm may be a good idea to check the ones on the sabre I just bought. Are there torq specs? Or just get them tight as you can get them… ?13 PIV w/ 200 MercIG: WarriorRiverCustomRods
This is part of my first of the month safety checks, nut tightness all, re: motor mounts, jackplates, transom bolts for JP.Steering also gets checked and oil levels every 2 weeks.Props come off every month to check for fishing line being wrapped around them, electric trolling motors mainly but the big guy on the back also gets a looksee.Trailer wheel nuts also included, only takes about a half hour but will save you a lot of downtime down the road.What price do you put on your own safety?A big motor flying off can kill before you even have a thought about it.
Good list plowcat, but Id add check brake caliper bolts if trailer has brakes. Had one come off and go right through my claw wheel a couple years ago. Found out later its not uncommon for the two bolts to loosen up. Which reminds me…….
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