How to Repair Mercury Gearcase Retainer Nut Threads

The Lower Unit Thread Chaser Tool from Buckshot Racing #77 provides a professional-grade solution for restoring damaged bearing carrier retainer nut threads in Mercury outboard lower units.

Saltwater corrosion, cross-threading, or mechanical wear can compromise internal threads, but this tool can help you restore them to OEM specifications—eliminating the need for lower unit replacement.

The Buckshot Racing #77 Thread Chaser is available in three precision-machined sizes, each engineered to match a specific Mercury gearcase thread type:

• 4.000″–16 UNC for XR4/XR6 small gearcases

• 4.375″–16 UNC for standard, CLE, and Sportmaster gearcases

• 5.44″ OD thread form for Verado & Mercury Racing offshore gearcases

  
  

Preparation

1. Remove the lower unit and secure it in a bench fixture or vise.

2. Wear safety glasses and gloves.

3. Clean the damaged thread area using a wire brush and degreaser.

4. Apply a true cutting oil (such as Tap Magic or Ridgid) to reduce friction and prevent galling.

⚠️ Do not use WD-40 or multipurpose lubricant. Use only thread-cutting oil formulated for aluminum

Thread Repair Procedure

Step 1 – Select the Correct Thread Chaser Size

• Use the 4.000″–16 UNC version for early Mercury XR4 and XR6 small bullet-style gearcases.

• Use the 4.375″–16 UNC version for most Mercury V6 outboards (135–300 HP), including CLE and Sportmaster.

• Use the 5.44″ OD version for Mercury Verado V6/V8 and Racing models like the 300R, 400R, and 450R.

  
  

Step 2 – Align the Tool

• Hold the chaser square to the housing face.

• Carefully center the tool to avoid cross-threading.

  
  

Step 3 – Begin Cutting

• Using a bearing carrier nut wrench (Buckshot Racing #77 wrench or equivalent), slowly and incrementally rotate the chaser clockwise.

• Let the cutting teeth engage naturally. Do not force it.

  
  

Step 4 – Clear Chips and Lubricate

• Every incremental turn, reverse the tool slightly to clear chips.

• Remove and clean the tool and thread area as needed.

• Reapply cutting oil throughout the process.

  
  

Step 5 – Inspect Threads

• Once the chaser has passed completely through, clean the threads.

• Visually inspect for uniform, clean threads.

• Test-fit a new, clean, lubricated retainer nut by hand to confirm smooth, proper engagement.

  
  

Tool Applications

4.000″–16 UNC Thread ChaserFor early Mercury XR4 and XR6 small bullet-style gearcases (1980s–1990s). Common in lightweight performance and outboard drag racing applications.

4.375″–16 UNC Thread ChaserFor standard production and high-performance gearcases on 2.0L–3.0L V6 outboards, including:

• Black Max, XR2, XR4 (standard), XR6

• XRi, Pro Max, 260 EFI, 280 ROS, 300 Drag

• SeaPro, Marathon, DTS commercial models

• Sterndrives: Alpha One, R/MR, Bravo XR

  
  

5.44″ Thread Chaser (OD Specified)For heavy-duty 5.44″ offshore gearcases used on:

• Mercury Verado V6/V8 (200–350 HP)

• Mercury Racing 300R, 400R, 450R

• Applications include offshore center consoles, catamarans, and high-speed tournament boats

• Supports Sportmaster and 5.44 HD gearcases with gear ratios of 1.60, 1.75, 1.85

  
  

Best Practices

• Always use cutting oil.

• Work slowly and avoid over-torquing.

• Do not use power tools or impact drivers.

• If threads are beyond restoration, seek welding/re-tapping or gearcase replacement.

  
  

Thread Chaser Gearcase Repair Tool, Mercury 4″ (ID), 4.375″ (ID), 5.44″ (OD)

Buy Now