1998 Mercury 200 hp prop question

[sbklf]

I finally got my boat in the water and have not looked at the prop closely to try and figure how these merc props work (I am use to OMC and Yamaha). It is a Mercury Marine Bravo 3 blade stainless prop. I put it in gear to tow the boat and when I checked to make sure it was in gear, the prop will spin about 1/8 turn (maybe a little more) back and forth on the shaft. it is not wobbly or anything it just has this play. It does not seem to vibrate when under way. I feel this might be normal but not sure. I will take it to a shop if I need to but thought someone here might be able to inform me on this.

 

[j_martin]

Re: 1998 Mercury 200 hp prop question

It's a dog clutch, so there's quite a bit of rotational play. In reverse, it should hit a solid stop both ways. In forward, it should ratchet one way, stop the other.

Shouldn't vibrate. If the prop is in good shape, it might be worthwhile to set up a dial indicator on the prop shaft and check for runout. They bend pretty easily if you hit an obstruction.

hope it helps
John