Transmission dip stick

[Tim]

I have a 1989 Catalina 27 that I have owned for one year. While doing the routine maintenancee (Universal 18) I dicovered that I am unable to remove the transmission dip stick "bolt" using a reasonable amount of force. As you know the dip stick is in a very tight spot and I do not want to break if off. I have assumed that it is threaded normally and should come off in a counter clock wise direction. Any advice you can give would be appreciated. WD-40? is it safe to use even if a small amount leaks into the transmission. I suspect that the transmission has never been serviced? Engine had 296 hrs. Thanks. Tim

 

[Patrick]

Get a long-a** extender

I had the same problem last fall when I took posession of my 85 Catalina. I tried a locking grip, pliers, socket set, etc. What finally worked was getting one of those six or seven inch extenders to go on your socket set. Not only do you get more leverage, but you don't have to contort yourself to get the socket down there and in a level position. It's a standard "lefty-loosey, righty-tighty" nut. The dip stick is attached to the end of the nut, by the way.Good luck!Patrick

 

[Gene]

Hard Bolt

One other suggestion, when ever a bolt is hard to loosen I always use a 6 point socket instead of a 12 pt. Helps to make sure you don't round off the bolt head corners.