1987 90hp lower unit

[mustangman]

I have a 1987 90 hp 3cyl. Friday when we were starting a trip into the Gulf of Mexico we got out about 3 channel markers from shore. When I hit the throttle it hit about 6000 rpms and we were barely moving about 5mph. Not knowing the area very well we decided to head back to port and called it a day. As we were getting the boat lifted out of the water the guy lifting it said it sounded like a lower unit forward gear problem. After we got it out my buddy was with me and told me when you put it into forward with the engine off you should be able to turn the prop and it should turn the motor over too, but it just clicked. In reverse it did turn the motor over. Has anyone else had this type of problem and does it sound like my lower unit needs to be rebuilt or replaced?

 

[Maxz695]

Re: 1987 90hp lower unit

In forwards the prop will lock in one direction and spin freely (with a click) in the other direction. This is normal. In reverse the prop locks in both directions. "This is why you can turn the engine over both ways in Rev" The prop spins freely No click either way in neutral

 

[Maxz695]

Re: 1987 90hp lower unit

It sounds more like you spun your prop hub. Try using a different prop or make a mark on the prop aligning with the hub and try it again if the mark moves your prop is spun

 

[mustangman]

Re: 1987 90hp lower unit

It sounds more like you spun your prop hub. Try using a different prop or make a mark on the prop aligning with the hub and try it again if the mark moves your prop is spun

Thanks Maxz695, that is what my dealer friend said also. I sent it out today and it should be back by Friday. It looked like the original from 1987 and looked pretty worn. I appreciate your input.