starts in gear?

[sea star]

hi guys,<br /> i just had my '71 johnson 125 hp winterized and my mechanic said it started in gear(the propeller spinning). is this unusual for this motor? i only used it twice this year and everything was fine. could it be the lower unit from sitting in cold weather? the gear oil was a little low too. is this something i'm gonna be stressing over all winter? any advice on what this could mean is greatly appreciated!<br />thanks, seastar

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: starts in gear?

Your engine is always in forward gear when at rest. When your mechanic started it up with the control in neutral, it should have went to that position on start-up. It is not uncommon for the prop shaft to turn slowly in the neutral position just from the churning of the oil. Is your 71 engine older than your mechanic? I'll bet it is!

 

[llfish]

Re: starts in gear?

R. Johnson are you saying with age comes knowledge. I like the phrase "Is you 71 engine older than your mechanic"?

 

[rwise]

Re: starts in gear?

welcome to Iboats Sea Star!

 

[MaccaMckeon]

Re: starts in gear?

My motor (83, 25hp Seahorse)is capable of starting in gear. I think it is from stretched or incorrectly assembled cable. Either way, I listen for the motor to engage nuetral before turning engine off. Motor has been converted from tiller/remote and needs some attention.

 

[Solittle]

Re: starts in gear?

Just make sure that you check the linkage adjustment as part of your spring maintenance checks.