Prop shaft thrust

[jimchere]

Model is an '82 Evinrude 55hp longshaft. I'm replacing the prop and have a question about lower unit health. The prop shaft has no radial runout and seems true. However, I can thrust the prop shaft in/out about 1/8". Is this normal? The Seloc manual gives no help about this type of spec. I do have "minor" water intrusion (barely starts to turn milky after about 20 hours of operation) which I suspect to be the shift rod seal. However, I'm curious if this thrust slop in the prop shaft is typical or indicates problems. Thanks....

 

[rjarreau]

Re: Prop shaft thrust

yep this is normal. you should have a little bit of thrust just like you have. however you arte in need of a lower unit reseal kit !!! good luck !!!

 

[jimchere]

Re: Prop shaft thrust

RJ, Thanks for the quick reply. I only get to run her for another 40 hours this season up here, so on goes the new prop and when the nasty season arrives its time to do the seal work. BTW, except for being in the navy I'm from TX so I envy the season down there...get me back to the Colorado River system!