clicking noise in Mariner 30hp

[gdog98]

Hey all! Just got back from vacation where I was using my cousin's boat. The motor ran fine but I noticed if I killed the motor in gear and coasted in or even ran the trolling motor with the outboard in gear, there was a very audible "clicking" noise. Not sure if it came from the powerhead or the gear box as it was on the water. Anyway, I was wondering what it was and if it's anything to worry about or look into. I have a '96 evinrude 60hp and have never heard it do this but I have heard other motors do it. Any help or advice would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[Dave1027]

Re: clicking noise in Mariner 30hp

It's normal. You are supposed to put it in neutral before you turn it off.

 

[gdog98]

Re: clicking noise in Mariner 30hp

Thanks Dave. I usually do put the motor in N before shutting it down but not always. Just curious, what's making the noise clutch dog/gears?

 

[Dave1027]

Re: clicking noise in Mariner 30hp

Yep. A quick look at the mechanics of the lower unit shows that when the driveshaft stops spinning and the prop continues the gears will ratchet. You can duplicate this easily in the driveway by shifting into forward gear then turning the prop it's normal direction.