73 merc 50hp please help

[nick34]

replaced water pump in lower unit put LU back on motor went to start motor it fired once or twice then i saw the prop start to spin everytime i turn the key and try to start motor what happened i thought i was careful enough to not turn the shift rod in the LU what can i do??? PLEASE HELP

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 73 merc 50hp please help

Nick, Check to see if the prop spins (use your foot) when the engine is in neutral and turned off. If it ratchets or doesn't turn more than 1/2 turn, you are in forward or reverse on the lower unit.

The only cure is to drop the LU and set the gearcase to neutral and reinstall it.