I normally stick a
2X4 in the clamp assembly and tighten the
screw pushing it into the pad. Should pop in
by hand. If not use Bobs method.
I would suggest putting the screw & pad in
the freezer over night. Don’t know how much
of and effect it has on parts that small but
if you can shrink the ball a bit and open the
socket in the pad some it would increase your
odds in getting them together. Put on some
lubricant before you put them in the freezer.
A brass pad may be more forgiving. Its
difficult (for me anyway) to get the aluminum
ones apart with out breaking one of the ears.
Hard to find room in the freeze for the whole
clamp assembly and management probably
wouldn’t allow it any.
Tubs
A "Boathouse Repair" is one thats done without having tools or the skills to do it properly.
