Prop Install Problem, maybe or maybe not

I just installed a new prop on my Mercury 60hp OptiMax. All went well with one possible exception. I noticed after it was installed and the lock nut torqued to specs I noticed that if I push and pulled the prop back and forth there was a little bit of "slop." That is, the prop moved on the shaft about 1/16" perhaps to 1/8th of an inch. I am not sure if the prop I took off had the same back and forth movement. I took to all apart to make sure everything was done correctly and saw no problem. So, is theprop supposed to move like that?

I remember reading just recently about someone else with the same basic problem of some play front to back, all the answers were a bit of play is ok, or recommended. I think Barnacle Bill from the VA forum was one of the responders. Search the VA forum and see if you come with anything.

Thanks jimp. I searched as you suggested but did not find anything. I'll call Mercury tomorrow and perhaps can get any answer. Again I appreciate your input.

My fishing buddy 's tracker w/60 hp merc. does the same thing , has a lot of slop ,I dont like it but the mechanic at the shop says it's ok , My Yamamie Hammer 150 has only a small amount of slop. ??????

That is normal. You are OK.

Are you sure the play is between the prop and the shaft or is it play on the inside of the gear housing. If the locknut is torged then how can you have play between the prop and the shaft??? All prop shafts have some play and if this is what you are seeing then you are ok.

Bo

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Originally Posted by Code357

Are you sure the play is between the prop and the shaft or is it play on the inside of the gear housing. If the locknut is torged then how can you have play between the prop and the shaft??? All prop shafts have some play and if this is what you are seeing then you are ok.

Bo

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ExactlyThumbs Up The play you feel is not the prop sliding on the shaft. It is the shaft itself moving. Everything sounds normal to me.

I have a 90 optimax and manual says 1/8 movement is normal

Normal. My 250 Opti has same amount of play. Z21.