Johnson 4hp (1969) freespinning prop ?

[iGrf]

I'm new to outboards and am now trying to get an old Johnson (4R69B) running. (it the normal drive, not the weedless)

Yesterday I noticed that the prop is running in some sort freespin mode.
By this I mean that if I turn the prop by hand the engine isn't turning but if I turn the flywheel then the prop is going along with it.

However I can turn the flywheel and hold the prop still with just one finger (obviously I only tried this while hand turning it not while it's running).

As I tested it in my watertank yesterday I noticed that, even at high rpm, it didn't kick up much water out of the tank.

Does anyone know if this free spinning prop is a feature or if something is broken ?

Thanks in advance,
Greg


PS : when I look at a diagram of the different parts in the gearcase then I would assume it could be drive pin that's gone, can someone confirm that before I dismantle the lower part of the engine ?

 

[John_S]

Re: Johnson 4hp (1969) freespinning prop ?

Yes, check the shear pin at the prop, first.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Johnson 4hp (1969) freespinning prop ?

Yes there is a drive pin and a clutch hub and a clutch ring all appear to be within the prop hub
no need to go in the gearcase.

 

[iGrf]

Re: Johnson 4hp (1969) freespinning prop ?

took the prop off the engine and indeed the shear pin has been sheared so that should be an easy fix

thanks for the help