prop nut locked tight

[crookedmullet]

Since I've owned my boat with a 1991 90hp Mercury on the back, I haven't taken off the prop for any reason. Well, on Sunday morning, killing some time before the kickoff, I figured I have a trip coming up so lets check the hub since I haven't done it yet. <br />This is where it all starts. The prop nut is a nylon lock nut, put the socket it on and try to turn it...no luck, won't even budge. Even had a neighbor stop by to see if he can help me. Will not budge. We even had an extension on the ratchet handle, didn't do an good. My only thought would be to cut it off, but then comes the concern of damaging the shaft. Is it possible to put heat on it without damaging the seals and then how much heat? Anyone have any ideas? Are there other options to replace that nylon nut with something else that won't melt itself on there so tight?<br />Thanks

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: prop nut locked tight

If the nut is locked on that bad, your prop probably is as well. The nut might be the least of your problems. If it runs out okay, you may be better off leaving well enough alone. Saltwater corrodes metal something fierce. The propshaft absolutely must be thoroughly greased on occasion when operating in saltwater or the metal parts will fuse together. That's where you're at right now and getting the prop off will likely cause a lot of collateral damage. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

 

[valiantjedi]

Re: prop nut locked tight

I had the same problem with getting mine off. I ended up using a very large socket wrench with an extended handle to get it off. No damage to the nut or threads.

 

[molsenice]

Re: prop nut locked tight

Since you stated it is a nylon locking nut, double check - I felt like a damb fool when I realized there are locking tabs that fold down around the nut - lift these up if you have them. Everything came free slicker than snot

 

[north40]

Re: prop nut locked tight

Do as Molsenice says...check tab washer.