85hp Thunderbolt prop not turning freely, anyone??

[b0b88]

my boat was driven in some sand and now the prop doesnt turn freely? and because im such a noob at boating im not sure if the prop is supposed to turn freely when in neutral and not running??? is this normal?? do i need to take apart my lower half of the outboard and clean something out?? please give me some idea of what i am supposed to do??

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 85hp Thunderbolt prop not turning freely, anyone??

In neutral the prop should turn freely. First remove the prop and see if there is something under it that can be washed or pulled out. If that still doesn't fix it, pull the drain an dvent plugs and drain the gear oil. It should not be milky (indicates water intrusion) or overly thick (indicates too long between changes). Refill it with fresh marine gear oil.