Replacement prop won't seat

[redgoat]

I am trying to replace a damaged prop on my Mercruiser IO 153, 4cyl, 120hp. The replacement prop (#48-76012-21) will not slide in far enough to expose the shaft splines so I can fasten it down properly with old nut. The prop stops just short of exposing the splines. The old prop had a number of 48-30012-21. I don't want to force or hammer it on further. But something is not right. Even though I have had this replacement prop for probably 30+ years, I don't think it was ever installed and put into service. Do I have the wrong replacement prop? Will it ever go on properly?

 

[gss036]

Re: Replacement prop won't seat

Check to see if there is a thrust washer in place, it may require a different thrust washer. I don't think the splines have ever changed.