Loud clicking noise from the outdrive?

[Joelk]

I had my boat out yesterday(1978 Astro Glass with a 5.0 L and a Pre-Alpha Sterndrive) and as I was returning to the launch to load it back onto the trailer, I noticed a noise coming from the outdrive. I slowed down and as the engine slowed it became a ticking noise that was constant with engine speed. It ticked in forward, reverse and neutral. It still seemed to operate normally, but the ticking was pretty loud.

Any suggestions on what might be causing the ticking?

Suggestions on how to troubleshoot where the noise is coming from?

Thanks, Joel

 

[scooper77515]

Re: Loud clicking noise from the outdrive?

fishing leader with sinker attached, wrapped around prop shaft?

Look for the obvious, first, before you assume the worst.

 

[Joelk]

Re: Loud clicking noise from the outdrive?

Thanks for the reply.

Unfortunately, it's not a minor problem. I pulled the outdrive and pulled the top cover off. A couple teeth are off of the gear on the upper drive shaft and damage to the other gear.

Should I consider trying to fix this or should I look of a used upper unit?

Suggestions on where to get parts and/or another upper unit?

 

[scooper77515]

Re: Loud clicking noise from the outdrive?

OUCH!!! Sorry to hear that. I was hoping for something minor...

Any idea what caused the damage?

Sorry, I cannot help with technical suggestions for your merc.