Prop turns when pulling starter cord

[Wingop]

Hi, newbie here - just acquired a 68 18hp Evinrude and it is very hard to pull starter cord and the prop turns when pulling. I made sure the start position is selected but no matter where the selector is positioned the same happens. Any ideas? Thanks in advance.

 

[flyingscott]

Take the motor out of gear. The gear selector is on the side of the motor pulling it towards you is forward pushing it all the way back is reverse in the middle is neutral. The throttle for the gas is on the tiller.

 

[Wingop]

Thanks fs - was called away to MD but will try this on return to sunny Fl!
I appreciate speedy reply

 

[Wingop]

As an aside - the Flying Scot was a heck of a steam train!

 

[flyingscott]

As an aside - the Flying Scot was a heck of a steam train!

This is one of my flying scotts

 

[Wingop]

Beautiful!