possible lower unit problem

[crpitts]

I recently developed a problem with my 93 Mercury 60hp. While under a load in forward the motor didnt want to accelerate much past idle. When I placed the motor in neutral and throttled up it worked fine. My suspisions are the lower unit. Any ideas?<br /><br />Thanks

 

[ob]

Re: possible lower unit problem

Try putting the control in forward gear position and see if you can rotate flywhell by hand and detect any lower unit binding.Best to feel with sparkplugs removed.Also inspsect throttle cable and linkage for freedom of movement with cowl removed by throttling with shift lever.

 

[hondon]

Re: possible lower unit problem

Drain the gear oil. Most horsepower robbing problems ,caused by gearcase failure ,will be evident just by looking at that oil.The oil should look similar too new.Any substantial grey color with alot of flack on the lower plug magnet suggests gearcase damage.Water in the gearcase can also cause bearing failure.Check the condition of your gear oil.