Banged prop and lower unit

[doctorchow]

I hit rock today on my 100 hp Mercury outboard and banged up one of the blades on my prop and bent the lower unit (propellor shaft they call this or is the rudder?). Obviously this needs to be repaired but I won't be able to get an appointment with the repair guy for a few weeks. Am I asking for trouble by trying to use the boat until then?

 

[walleyehed]

Re: Banged prop and lower unit

The extent of the bent prop will affect performance AND lower unit wear.
As for a skeg being bent, it can be straightened...the prop-shaft, if bent, should not be run until repaired.

 

[doctorchow]

Re: Banged prop and lower unit

Thanks Walleyehed. Prop shaft is fine. Got my terminology mixed up as I am still a newbie. Prop aside, my skeg is bent out of shape.

Do you think it's ok if I bang it straight myself before the professional has time to get to it? Anything special I need to know in order to do this?

Thanks

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Banged prop and lower unit

Banging the skeg is a great way to crack the lower unit housing -- it is afterall, aluminum. Unless its really out of shape leave it alone or have it professionally straightened.

 

[doctorchow]

Re: Banged prop and lower unit

Thanks for the advice Silvertip. I will heed it.

 

[walleyehed]

Re: Banged prop and lower unit

I disagree with leaving it alone....1/8" from true can cause serious, high load steering problems.
If the skeg is propperly backed, it can be straightened with no problems. I don't know that I could count how many I have trued-up, and never have I cracked anything....BUT, with that being said, there IS a point where someone with a good understanding of the metalurgy would be best if it's bent a considerable distance such as an inch or more.