1954 QD-15 verry hard to pull start

[Nickwstp]

Hi there folks, seeing a couple of threads on here about the same issue but I never saw what the actual issue was. I had this motor running beautifully last year but it needed the prop shaft seal done as it was leaking oil a bit. Got that all taken care of but now that it's boating season again I am trying to start the motor in a barrel and it is extremely hard to pull start. I read that the prop shaft could possibly not be aligned? But it doesn't seem all that complicated down there and before I destroy all my gasket sealer again and have to scrape it all off I would like to ask you guys if you know of any issues. I have the motor in neutral but it seems like the prop is trying to spin as I'm pulling the cord. Thanks for any insights you may have.

 

[racerone]

Give the propshaft a hefty bump with a hammer.;---Front bearing may need to be seated / put in the proper position.-----And when you installed the front bearing you did line up the wee pin I hope.

 

[Nickwstp]

Bump with a hammer haha, interesting thought. Yes, had to line up the hole or the bottom piece wouldn't go on. Now that I'm thinking about it I'm hoping the pin that holds the little shifter is seated correctly. :facepalm:

 

[racerone]

Well ----Many moons ago it was a standard procedure to bump the shaft after assembly to seat the forward bearing.-----But folks today think it is a joke?----Good luck with the project

 

[Nickwstp]

Well by today's standards it may be unorthodox, but I will absolutely follow the directions of folks who have more knowledge than I do. Especially if I don't have to tear apart all my work to get it to work. I'll get back to you after I have beaten it thoroughly.

 

[racerone]

Just one bump usually freed up those precision built lower units.-----Front bearing needs to be in the proper position for correct gear backlash.-----I was not there to see what was / was not done during this work.