198
GEARCASE
PROPELLER
PROPELLER
Inspection
Carefully check the propeller and outboard for the
following conditions:
• Damaged blades and signs of propeller cavita-
tion
• Spun or overheated inner hub
• Inadequate lubricant
• Damage to outer hub area
• Correct size
• Check for bent or damaged propeller shaft
Installation
Refer to Propeller Hardware Installation on
p. 44.
LUBRICANT
Draining
Remove the lubricant level plug, then the lubricant
drain/fill plug, and drain the lube from the gear-
case into a container. Inspect the lubricant for
metal chips.
The presence of metal fuzz can indicate normal
wear of the gears, bearings, or shafts within the
gearcase. Metal chips can indicate extensive
internal damage.
Inspection
Inspect the lubricant for water contamination.
Water in the lubricant can cause a milky appear-
ance, however normal aeration can also cause
the same appearance.
WARNING
When servicing the propeller, always shift
the outboard to NEUTRAL and twist and
remove all spark plug leads so the engine
cannot be started accidentally.
WARNING
Gearcase lubricant may be under pressure
and/or hot. If plug is removed from a
recently operated outboard, take precau-
tions to avoid injury.
1. Lubricant level plug (upper)
2. Lubricant drain/fill plug (lower)
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