I have replaced anodes twice. The first replacement the anode was installed by manufacture ( I assume ) . I used a Snap-on t- handle with 1/4" drive and I thought I was going to have the Bronze threads strip out of the housing it was tight. When the screw broke loose and was removed I run a 5mm thread chase to clean threads. The screw only catchs approx 5 to 6 threads. The screw had a blue anti vibration patch on it ( new anode ) . I polished the face surface of the housing where it meets the surface of the anode to insure good continuity. I applied a small amount of silicone dielectric grease to the treads and face.( I wasn't sure if I should do this but I did ) This year when I replaced the anode it was tight but threaded out nicely, I used the old screw to chase the housing threads and repeated last years procedure.
While replacing the anode I also remove the thruster propeller. Again last year I thought I was going to break the propeller removing it. I purchased a 1/2" oak doll-rod to lock the propeller to the thrust housing to loosen the nut once the nut released I removed it only to find the propeller locked on the shaft. I used the doll-rod and hammer to shock the propeller to try to loosen it. After several blows with the hammer it started to release from the shaft. I was able to remove it undamaged. When reinstalling the prop I ran fine scotch brite pad over the shaft to clean it, then applied a small amount of Mercruiser 101 grease ( grease is used on prop shaft mercruiser and mercury outboards for prop installation) on the thruster prop shaft , then tightened the nut. This year removal was easy, Doll-rod and t-handel to loosed the nut ,slight pressure with my hand, prop slid off the shaft. I repeated procedure this year.
