Hi I just removed the transom assembly to have it painted and noticed the studs have quite a bit of rust and are smaller in diameter in some spots, this was a salt water boat.
By the luck of the irish the transom was well sealed and is solid but Im wondering if I can replace those studs? BTW its a bravo 1

thanks

anyone?

I pulled my B1 gimble housings and found the studs in the same condition. Got mine out with vise grips. I've ordered a new set online but have not received them yet.

where did you order from, i cant seem to find them

You can order them from mercury for 8 bucks a piece or go down to fastenall and have them cut some stainless threaded rod for less than half. I think they're 7/16 threads

Ordered them from Marine Parts Express for $6.19 each. Merc# 16-56296.

My drive is an early model B1 and uses special bolts (alum) for the bottom 2 holes.
Later serial# drives use studs in the bottom 2 holes and are a different part# since they are shorter then the upper studs..

You will want to confirm the part number/s.
You can look them up here using the serial#:
http://www.mercruiserparts.com/

much appreciated