Thru Hull Removal

Oct 30, 2019
574
Does anyone have some ideas for removing the original thru hulls from the spot under the head and the one just forward of that on the other side of the bulkhead?

The seacocks were original, so I want to replace them with ball valves. After much effort (picture Jack with a pipe wrench and 3 foot leverage bar), I was able to remove the old valves. But the thru-hulls are giving me a harder time. They are both the style where the thru-hull goes through the hull and into a large nut on the other side. Both the thru-hull and the nut are in place.

As always, any ideas are greatly appreciated.

Jack
Bella - V2620
 
Nov 8, 2001
1,818
Hi

I used a lovely tool called a DREMMEL. Very small whizzy grinder/drill thing. Works an absolute treat. If you havent got one then get one now!!!! Alternatively use a standard grinder CAREFULLY!

Steve B
 
Apr 30, 2000
197
They will jack right out with a block of wood on the outside of the hull with a hole larger than the thruhull flange and a bolt or threaded rod with large washers on either end. A little twisting and you're there. Don't forget to take the nut off the inside of the hull first. Split the nut with a hacksaw or Dremel if it's stuck. Bill Bach
 
Aug 31, 2007
27
Hi Jack,

Remove the outside "mushroom" with an angle grinder, be careful not to damage the gelcoat. It gets warm from the grinding, making the sealant soft. You can help it a little with a heat gun, again taking care not to heat the hull too much. Rather than hitting them with a large hammer, "unscrew" them from the inside. This method also saves you the work of removing the valves.

Cheers
Ulf
 
Oct 30, 2019
574
Steve,
I have the same lovely tool! I'll give it a try this weekend, possibly along with every other idea.

Jack