I need to replace the mount on my boat.  I tried removing the screws (6 of um) that hold down the mount to the boat.  ONE came out clean the others simply spin around.  What gives?  What am I doing wrong?  Any help would be greatly appreciated.

did you check to make sure there is not a washer or bolt or something holding the screw in?  thats what i had when i pulled mine off.

You'll probably have to pull the front panel to reach the nuts and washers on the underside .... they are thru bolted for the most part

The Maxxum on my Stratos is thru bolted. Washers and nuts on the inside. Got long arms?  8-)

Thanks guys.  Im sure your right, will pull the front panel and check it out.

Try this first. If the nuts are turning with the bolts, carefully pry up on the motor mount so it puts tension at a bolt.

Then try the screwdriver. Prying up will put friction on the nut and washer, maybe enough to keep them from turning with the bolt.

The fact that you loosened them shows the pressure exerted before it became loose was enough to keep the nut from turning.

If it works, loosen one a few turns, then move to another. If you're lucky, it will work. Hopefully, you'll get them loose enough to where they can be cut with a hacksaw.

For the new install, I'd suggest T nuts.

Locate the bolt locations for your new install, then drill the appropriate size for the T nut sleeve to fit snugly.

Should be available at most hardware stores in their fasteners section. If you cannot find stainless steel, put a bead of silicone in the corner of the cylinder and head, then install. That will prevent water from getting trapped in the assembly.

Put Never Seez or similar product on the threads of the bolts. Apply carefully. A drop of the stuff will coat the world, and it's all but impossible to clean up. But it works. I used it on the ferrous steel fasteners on my lobsterboat. Though they rusted on the outside, the stuff kept the threads from rusting, even though some got frequent salt water baths.

Here's one source for stainless.

http://www.greenboatstuff.com/ststteenut18.html?productid=ststteenut18&channelid=LSCAS

Chances are you won't be able to hammer them in. No problem. Use a C clamp, and squeeze them into place.

If your deck is fiberglass or aluminum, get nutserts, and press them into place. Also available in stainless steel. These require a tool to install properly. Most metal fabricating shops would likely have one. So, if you know somebody........................

http://www.prifast.co.uk/nutserts.htm

Nice suggestion on the T nuts, Rhino.  I wish I had thought of that the last time I replaced my trolling motor mount. 

Nice suggestion on the T nuts, Rhino. I wish I had thought of that the last time I replaced my trolling motor mount.

Thanks.  Hope it may be helpful to some.

This is what I used. Very simple, when you tighten the screw the rubber gromet swells and tightly secures the mount to the boat. it also provides a little flexibility to prevent stress on the mount.This a standard Motorguide part so good chance this is how your motor is mounted now.

I have used those mounting isolaters.  Easy to install.  But they didn't last too long.  I later went to through bolts with better success.

Been there done that. The Motor Guide bolts are quite pricey and does not work for long. I had to use nuts and washers to secure the bracket. If you do not have long arms have your first aid kit ready for the scratches and cuts you will receive. ;D

Well after a couple hours I'm done.   Set up is as good as new.  Thank God I do have long arms.  Full of fiberglass , but thats ok.  ;D

Don't use those T mounting bolts shown or that are sold through cabela's or BPS.  I nearly lost a TM with those things and have heard about others either loosing a TM or nearly losing one.

They're not nearly strong enough to securely hold a TM in place, at least those 65lbs and up, running on high and hitting an underwater obstacle.  They shear right off!   

Don't use those T mounting bolts shown or that are sold through cabela's or BPS. I nearly lost a TM with those things and have heard about others either loosing a TM or nearly losing one.

They're not nearly strong enough to securely hold a TM in place, at least those 65lbs and up, running on high and hitting an underwater obstacle. They shear right off!

Yes Glen is right I have gone through 3 sets of them a season. Went with the T Nuts Tom suggested and just completed the 2nd season with no issues.

I did not use them.  Went with bolts and nuts.  I could hang the boat from the trolling motor mount.   ;D