propeller rotation

[ringo]

In what direction should the propeller turn when in neutral? I replaced the water pump impeller and all the gaskets and seals on the pump housing on a 72'mercury 50hp 500 4cylinder engine(I don't know where serial number is on this engine,and I don't know where to look for it)this is my first boat. when I assembled everything back and cranked the engine the propeller spins counter clock wise when I'm standing behind the boat looking at the engine. also how good are this engines. <br /><br />thanks, ringo

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: propeller rotation

The serial number for your Merc should be on a silver plate/tag on the front/top of the transom bracket. They're kinda hard to read unless the motor is straight down.<br />Your prop will freewheel either direction in N, Turn only clockwise in F, and only counterclockwise in Reverse. Sounds like the shift shaft moved while you were putting the lower unit back on...real common. Best cure I've found is to start off with the control in F, then drop the unit, etc. Easier to get it back on in the right gear that way. Purists say to drop the lower in N, but its harder to get back on that way. Just my 2 cents.<br />If the previous owner maintained your Merc well and you continue that, It should last a few more years....its 31 now and still going strong.