Can't tighten P16 dolphin striker

msedc1997

Rank: Lubber

Registered: Jun 17, 2011

Last visit: Jul 04, 2012

Posts: 26
Posted: Jul 12, 2011 - 08:07 AM

I have tried to tighten the dolphin striker but it will not move. I loosened the step ball and screw on the bottom. I am afraid to pull too hard. Any suggestions?

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Mark

Prindle 16 and Laguna 18DS
Ripon, WI
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pirateboy27

Rank: Lubber

Registered: Dec 20, 2009

Last visit: Oct 30, 2014

Posts: 53
Posted: Jul 12, 2011 - 08:59 AM

sorry to tell you, but this could get real ugly. I drilled out the rivets and removwed the base casting from the beam. I'm a machinist with all the tools (including torch!) I need, and it took me DAYS of effort to get it loose. In the end I removed so much thread from the aluminum casting that I had to install a giant Heli-coil thread insert, and had to make a new rod. My low buck sugestion is to drill out the rivets, and put a ss washer or two below the rod to take up the excess space. The only other choice is a new casting and rod. Hope this helps

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Repairable P18
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