2000 Yamaha 200 VMAX

[<Jason>]

the bolts that hold my lowerunit broke off earlier last year. I didn't hit anything. they just broke off and I almost lost my lower unit.
I ordered a bolt kit and replaced the bolts, only to have it happen again. 3 of the bolt heads are broken off and one is completely gone. Can someone help me figure out what is causing this.
there is no odd vibration or sounds in the engine while it is running

[<Hamfisted>]

What kinda torque wrench are you using? They're only torqued to about 30 ft.lbs (check the spec book...). It would take a lot of vibration to loosen properly torqued bolts, it would probably shake the whole boat. If they're breaking off I would say they were way over torqued. You're only working with aluminum.


Mike .... Miami, FL

[<jb123>]

sounds bizarre...any chance someone tried to unbolt it,as in steal it,sheared them and couldnt drop the unit?
the only way ive ever seen them break is with a wrench on it,in or out.