The suggestions made are good ones, particularly if the valve has been
stuck for some time. It is certainly worth a try to use additional
mechanical leverage provided this is done with an appreciation for the
consequences of excess force. If an 8" pipe is inserted over the handle,
this should be sufficient to free a valve that has not been stuck for
too long. It should not be easy to break a bronze handle, even with an
8" pipe providing 6" of additional leverage.

I had a thru-hull for the head that was always difficult to open/close,
even when recently lubricated. Based on that, the pipe was effective
when unassisted torque wasn't enough.

Needless to say, at the next haulout, I disassembled the valve and
cleaned it thoroughly. It has been smooth as silk ever since.

Good luck with yours.

Chuck

padeen wrote:
Anyone have some good suggestions for freeing up stuck through-hulls, short
of hauling out? I imaging going at them with a long handle extension may be
a good way to find oneself with a whole lot of water in the bilge!Any ideas
would be appreciated.