propeller question

[double3fd]

hey guys, i just put a brand new prop on my boat. i never changed it myself before.  i followed the directions and it was pretty simply and im about 99% sure its on correctly.  the question is, i notice that there is a little slight wiggle in the propeller.  after i put it on (not running) i can slighly move it.  is that normal that there is a slight play in the prop? or is it not tight enought? or is it on wrong? any thougths???

[Tacklebox Joe]

hey double...it's TBJ again! I've changed a prop or two in my day. what do you mean by a slight move? the prop turns or does it wiggle on the prop shaft?

[double3fd]

its hard to explaine, it spins fine, just if you push up on it, there is a slight wiggly "up and down" the drive shaft.  thats as best i can expaline without showing you.  is that normal?  i know i out the pieces together fine, and i tightened the nut pretty good, and bent 3 of the 6 tabs on the washer.  it moves like half a centimeter up and down if that.

[Reckless]

 If I am not mistaken don't over tighten. Ones with cotter pin you tighten they back off to line up pin hole. Get a torque wrench and find what it should be tightened to.

[Tacklebox Joe]

i never asked what kind of power you have. assuming you have an i/o or o/b...you installed the thrust washer, prop, locking tab washer, spline washer and nut in that order  correct?  As reckless points out make sure the nut is tight to proper torque. I have a merc and most alpha's and bravo's require 55 lbs of torque.

the slight movement should be okay. 3 out of 6 tabs is more than enough. sounds like the prop is not going anywhere. again, just make sure nut is at proper torque as this may eliminate the "wiggle"

[double3fd]

k thank you guys

[Pops Soul]

I have replaced my prop on my 200hp Johnson and my 25hp merc and yes there is some play in both of them, they are not tight to the point where there is NO movement  Hopes this helps

[double3fd]

yea thats perfeft.  i know i put it on right, and tightened it enough, and there is still a verrrrry super slight play in the prop.  just checking to make sure this is nromal before i go out.  thank you so much for responding and helping me!

[Maritime Matt]

What your feeling is not play in the prop but Prop Shaft end play. And yes there should be some. Prop nuts should always be tightened to Manufacturers specs. I tighten'em real good. you don't want a loose prop on the shaft.
Matt

[Baitwaster]

Just don't put your leg anywhere near it and everything else is simple!!!