How hard to replace the prop on Mercruiser 170?

[mgb123]

My mom and dad were out and managed to clip the prop in open water...dunno what they hit, but I'll bet that it's not lookin much better than the prop is right now...2 out of 3 blades pretty much destrroyed.<br /><br />The motor is an inboard MercCruiser 170. I can get the serial numbers etc. if necessary. Can anyone give me an idea of what would be involved in putting on a new prop. What tools, where (completely out of water i.e. on trailer, or just with the prop out of water) and about how long would this take me? I'm used to working on VW's so I don't know <br />how much of that will help, but I'm just trying to say that I'm not completely mechanically illerate.<br /><br />Also, since we're definiately going to put a new prop on, what should I be looking for? The motor produces 170hp according to the manual, and with a full load we seem to cruise at 4500/5000 rpm.<br /><br />Thanks in advance guys, I'd really like to know how to do this myself, as I imagine it's not the last time it's going to happen...<br /><br />Thanks again,<br />Matt

 

[Bondo]

Re: How hard to replace the prop on Mercruiser 170?

Get a 1 1/16th" wrench,+ a block of wood......<br />Use the wood to stop the prop from turning.... Turn the nut off after bending the lock-tabs out of the way.... <br />Remove the prop......<br />Install is the oppsite....<br />Be Sure to Grease the shaft well....<br />Get a replacement prop Exactly the same as the 1 on there Now....

 

[Doug Durako]

Re: How hard to replace the prop on Mercruiser 170?

You may also have a thrust washer ahead of the prop on the shaft----make sure it is the right one for your new prop.<br /><br />I would do this on land until you get the feel for it---then it is easy to do in the water.