original nuts are I think chrome plated brass. I would assume they did that because people refuse to use never seize and they wanted to avoid calls about galled threads. stainless is great just remember the never seize even tho I hate the stuff.

my omc outdrive are stainless, book is very adamant about threads
no chrome plated brass
Supposed to be one and done
but in past I have used them 3 times still hold torque
But this new to me boat.. all of them are being replaced.

Without seeing the bracket that you are mounting there I would say it is usually not a good idea to use a washer under a bracket. It keeps it from sitting flat on the surface and might compromise the long term strength.

First thing i would do is call whoever made your conversion kit and ask them. If they say its ok to space it out then go for it.

Otherwise I would personally do away with that grounding point and and use an alternative or put it on the other side of the bracket and drill a hole and use a longer bolt like Mbam suggested.

Bill,




Kinda too late. I’ve already machined the bracket. It’s all good, though. Everything lines up perfectly. Moving forward.

Thanks. Brad.

Cheaper way for real outdrive mounting mercruiser / quicksilver nuts/washer is using the kit # vs individual pieces.

859116Q01
859116Q01 Stern Drive Installation Hardware Kit For Mercury Mercruiser
Most places sell under $25

Ayuh,..... I know what yer saying, but was convinced by an ole marine mechanic, that quicksilver perfect seal does a much better job, as it never washes off, ever,..... I wish I'd learned that years earlier,....
I now coat the threads of pretty much any, 'n every bolt/ nut I think I might want to take apart someday,.....
I use the non-hardening form-a-gasket #3 as it's easier to find, 'n is the same thing as perfect seal,.....
Trailer lug nuts, same on my truck, drive nuts, starter bolts, you name it, it gets #3 1st,.....

my omc book
States gasket sealer on the nuts and seal
#3 works great,
although they recommend omc gasket sealer or equivalent
Just the right amount of sticky
🤣