prop clicks when spun clockwise in forward

[JLA]

I just removed a Yamaha 40ELJ from storage, installed a new impeller. and bolted it up to the powerhead. After connecting the shift linkage, I noticed that when the unit is shifted to reverse, the prop is fully engaged and will not spin in either direction, but when the unit is shifted into forward, the prop will not spin counter-clockwise, but will spin clockwise with a clicking noise (all by hand). I don't know if this is abnormal or not, and if it is abnormal, I don't know what might be wrong. I am hesistant to try and run the motor thinking that I might destroy something in the lower unit. Any advice at all on this would be appreciated. Is the prop supposed to spin at all when the unit is in forward or should it be positively engaged in either direction?

 

[JUSTINTIME]

Re: prop clicks when spun clockwise in forward

normal, it is called a ratcheting clutch dog

 

[jl_photo]

Re: prop clicks when spun clockwise in forward

I just bought my first Yamaha so i am not knowledgeable about them.

in general outboards do not shift predictably when they are not running.

you might remove the spark plugs and spin the flywheel by hand while shifting to see if the problem goes away.

look for the expected behavior of the prop as you spin the flywheel in the normal running direction.

it is not likely that there is anything wrong since you didn't disassemble the gear case.

you might have the shift linkage installed wrong.

go slowly repairs are expensive

when you remove any bolt on an outboard put some anti-seize on it so it won't freeze up.


while you are at it drain an ounce or so of gear case oil out of the bottom of the lower unit to check for water. oil should be transparent brown not muddy or gray.


get some more expert advice than me before starting engine.

 

[grid]

Re: prop clicks when spun clockwise in forward

The prop is doing just what it's supposed to. Go have fun--