Prop PROBLEM!!!

[ltshamus]

Hi all, have an 03 Merc 4S 115hp and can't get the prop OFF!!! have tried banging it, heating it, banging and heating ... no luck at all. Have new prop I want to put on but can't get the old one off !!! Local marina wants $110 to do it. unemployed don't have the cash. Anyone have any suggestions??? Thanks in advance for your help and recommendations

 

[Antares2000]

Re: Prop PROBLEM!!!

Props are held on with a large nut and usually a cotter pin, bent intentionally to hold it on. Check that and once its removed the prop pulls off with a bit of force
Rob

 

[Bondo]

Re: Prop PROBLEM!!!

Ayuh,... Sounds like the prop is Siezed to the shaft,... Somebody didn't Grease it...

You might have to Cut it off...

 

[steelespike]

Re: Prop PROBLEM!!!

Try something like PB blaster,nut buster,liquid wrench etc.

 

[junior1113]

Re: Prop PROBLEM!!!

rent a 5 ton 3 jawed puller at autozone should work with some pb blaster. and when u do get it off put some grease on shaft prior to installing new one. dont do any beating or youll be looking for a lower unit $$$$$$$$

 

[ltshamus]

Re: Prop PROBLEM!!!

Hey guys ... did the PB blaster banging, and heat ... even drove the boat FULL throttle w/ loosened nut and still wouldn't budge. Thought about the wheel puller,but can't figure where to get grip on the prop itself??? any clues??? once again thanks in advance for your help and I might end up having to cut it off

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Prop PROBLEM!!!

I feel for you! It is difficult if not impossible to get a regular three jaw puller of the proper size to fit behind the prop. I have the exact same problem on a Force 90. What I am going to do is fabricate a steel ring to clamp behind the blades and use three lengths of all-thread to a plate bearing on the prop shaft end. Lacking that, I will drill and tap the center for three screws and use a steering wheel puller.

It is on so tight that I don't hold much hope though. I suspect that the inner rubber hub and bronze splines will pull out of the prop casting and will need to be cut off the shaft. Main problem is that it is not my engine and it is a stainless prop. Need to get permission from the owner before any modification or damage is done.

But, since the prop is dirt stupid and I am just slightly less so, I will eventually win, one way or the other.

GOD! I hate salt water engines.

 

[hwsiii]

Re: Prop PROBLEM!!!

Shamus, i think if you will loosen up the nut 3/8" holding the prop on and close the tab holding the nut and put the engine in Reverse and advance the throttle HARD a few times you will find that it will come off on its own. When the prop is in forward gear it just drives the prop TIGHTER not LOOSER to the shaft.

H