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Mercury Marine Engine Propellers and Mercury Propeller Hardware Resources and Information
PartsVu is proud to stock a wide selection of Mercury outboard propellers and propeller hardware to fit your exact Mercury outboard engine specifications. Need help finding other Mercury outboard parts to upgrade or repair your Mercury outboard engine? Check out our helpful Mercury Outboard Maintenance Parts Charts.
We also regularly publish helpful resources to help you maintain your Mercury outboard motor, such as:
Mercury Outboard Propellers and Mercury Propeller Hardware FAQs
How do I install a propeller on my Mercury outboard engine? (Step by step guide)
While many believe that installing a new propeller on a Mercury outboard is a tedious and cumbersome task, it is not the case. In fact, armed with the right knowledge, one can conveniently pull off the task of installing a new prop within a few minutes!
- Using a screwdriver, push down the two bent-up tabs that are holding down the propeller nut.
- Insert prop stop to prevent spinning.
- Open lock nut retainer with Flat Screwdriver.
- Remove prop nut.
- Remove locknut retainer.
- Remove drive sleeve adapter.
- Remove drive sleeve from the boat propeller.
- Remove forward thrust washer.
- Clean any debris or old fishing line around the prop shaft.
- Then inspect the shaft and analyze if it needs to be greased. If it does, coat a thin, even layer of Mercury 2-4-C grease on all the splines.
- Select replacement propeller
- Install forward thrust washer
- Slide drive sleeve into the propeller
- Insert drive sleeve adapter
- Slide the new propeller on the prop shaft
- Slide locknut retainer on prop shaft
- Insert prop stop to prevent spinning
- Tighten propeller nut
- Finish with torque wrench, and tighten the nut further until you hear a click sound.
- Close locknut retainer against locknut
How often should you change your prop?
In general, it is recommended to change a boat prop if one or more of the blade edges are chipped or broken by over 15%. In case the propeller is in good condition, and the blades haven’t suffered any damage, you can continue using the same without the need to change it.
How tight should a propeller nut be?
For a propeller nut to be accurately placed, it is crucial that the half prop nut is first installed and tightened to be just snug enough to preload it onto the prop shaft, against the hub. Next, the thick prop nut goes onto the shaft. All you need to make sure is that the propeller nut is tight enough, so as not to come off due to any vibration.
Is it easy to change a boat prop?
Yes, it definitely easy to change propellers. The steps are quite simple and usually can be completed within 30 minutes or so.
How much torque is needed when installing a propeller?
Once the nut is hand tightened, you may now use a torque wrench to reach the specification of 55 foot-pounds of torque. If you don’t have a torque wrench, no need to worry, simply tighten down the nut with your socket. It will need to be pretty snug to avoid coming off when running your outboard. Once the nut is snugly in place, you’ve successfully installed your propeller.
What is a propeller thrust washer?
Essentially, a thrust washer also referred to as a lock washer, is a long-wearing flat bearing that enables the transmission and resolution of axial forces in rotating mechanisms with the aim of keeping the components aligned along a shaft. Thrust washers often act as the more affordable alternatives to rolling thrust bearings.
Why should I get a Mercury Fury 4-blade propeller?
Bass tournament anglers like Mark Zona, who load their boats with the latest fishing technology require a propeller that will help them reach top speeds and stay ahead of their competition. The Mercury Fury 4 has four high-progressive-rake blades made of Mercury’s X7 Alloy for additional lift and superior top speed on heavy, tournament-loaded bass boats. See why Mark Zona uses the Fury 4 blade propeller.
Just some of the benefits of the Mercury Fury 4 Blade propeller:
- Mid-range acceleration
- More lift even with a heavy load
- “Stick” to the water in rough waters
How do 4-blade Mercury marine propellers enhance the performance of heavy fishing boats?
Most boats come with a 3-blade prop, which works. However, 4-blade props greatly enhance the performance of heavier, multi-species fishing boats like walleye boats.
Unique demands of a Walleye or heavier multi-species fishing boat:
- Good mid-range performance
- Forward and back trolling with the main outboard
- Great performance in heavy seas
- Fuel economy especially at the mid-range performance
A 4-blade propeller like Mercury Marine’s Revolution 4, which is specifically designed for heavier, multi-species fishing boats, provide the following advantages:
- Grabs more water which gets up on plane faster even with a heavy load like a lot of Walleye gear
- You always have two blades in the water which gives the prop bite and keeps the hull lifted and on plane even in heavy seas
- More efficient for back trolling and forward trolling
- Enhanced fuel economy
How do I service my 2-stroke Mercury outboard lower unit?
Use an appropriately sized screwdriver assisted by a wrench if necessary to loosen these screws which should be pretty tight. An impact driver and hammer might be needed. If the drain screw has a magnetic tip, inspect the plug after removal to see if heavy deposits exist. Some fine shavings are normal, but chunks or a large quantity of metal is cause for further inspection. Have a drain pan ready, and extra rags handy as gear lube will begin running down the skeg as soon as you remove the upper vent plug. Be sure to collect the used gaskets from both plugs after removal as these are not reusable and should be discarded.
Allow several minutes with the engine tilted all the way down to drain all the old gear oil fully. Like your engine oil, inspect the spent oil for evidence of water intrusion, other contamination, or metal. If you have purchased one of PartsVu’s handy lower unit oil change kits, you will already have new gaskets, oil, and a pump. Screw the pump into the lower drain hole, then connect it to the container of gear oil.
Begin pumping oil into the Mercury 2-stroke lower unit until oil begins to flow from the vent plug at the top. Stop pumping and wait a few minutes for all the air bubbles to work themselves out of the gearcase. After this brief pause, pump a few more times until clean gear oil without bubbles is flowing from the vent plug. With a fresh gasket in place, install and torque the top vent plug. Unscrew your fill hose from the lower drain plug and quickly swap in the lower drain plug with a new gasket — torque to spec.
How do I service my 4-stroke Mercury outboard lower unit?
Use an appropriately sized screwdriver assisted by a wrench if necessary to loosen these screws which should be pretty tight. An impact driver and hammer might be needed. If the drain screw has a magnetic tip, inspect the plug after removal to see if heavy deposits exist. Some fine shavings are normal, but chunks or a large quantity of metal is cause for further inspection. Have a drain pan ready, and extra rags handy as gear lube will begin running down the skeg as soon as you remove the upper vent plug. Be sure to collect the used gaskets from both plugs after removal as these are not reusable and should be discarded.
Allow several minutes with the engine tilted all the way down to drain all the old gear oil fully. Like your engine oil, inspect the spent oil for evidence of water intrusion, other contamination, or metal. If you have purchased one of PartsVu’s handy lower unit oil change kits, you will already have new gaskets, oil, and a pump. Screw the pump into the lower drain hole, then connect it to the container of gear oil.
Begin pumping oil into the Mercury lower unit until oil begins to flow from the vent plug at the top. Stop pumping and wait a few minutes for all the air bubbles to work themselves out of the gearcase. After this brief pause, pump a few more times until clean gear oil without bubbles is flowing from the vent plug. With a fresh gasket in place, install and torque the top vent plug. Unscrew your fill hose from the lower drain plug and quickly swap in the lower drain plug with a new gasket — torque to spec.
How to change a propeller on a Mercury outboard?
To change a propeller on a Mercury outboard, you'll need to first remove the old propeller by loosening the nut that secures it to the propeller shaft using a wrench. Once the nut is loose, you can pull the propeller off the shaft.
Next, you'll need to install the new propeller. Start by sliding the propeller onto the shaft, making sure that the splines on the shaft match up with the splines on the inside of the propeller. Once the propeller is in place, tighten the nut onto the shaft using a wrench, being careful not to overtighten.
How to install a propeller on a Mercury outboard?
To install a propeller on a Mercury outboard, start by sliding the propeller onto the propeller shaft, making sure that the splines on the shaft match up with the splines on the inside of the propeller. Once the propeller is in place, tighten the nut onto the shaft using a wrench, being careful not to overtighten.
It's also a good idea to inspect the propeller and the propeller shaft for any damage or wear before installing a new propeller. If you notice any damage or wear, it's best to have the propeller shaft repaired or replaced before installing a new propeller.
How to remove propeller from Mercury outboard motor?
To remove a propeller from a Mercury outboard motor, start by using a wrench to loosen the nut that secures the propeller to the propeller shaft. Once the nut is loose, you can slide the propeller off the shaft.
It's important to be careful when removing the propeller, as the blades can be sharp and can cause injury if handled improperly. It's also a good idea to inspect the propeller and the propeller shaft for any damage or wear before installing a new propeller. If you notice any damage or wear, it's best to have the propeller shaft repaired or replaced before installing a new propeller.
What comes in a Mercury propeller hardware kit from PartsVu?
The contents of a Mercury propeller hardware kit from PartsVu may vary depending on the specific kit, but typically they include the necessary Mercury hardware for installing or replacing a propeller on a Mercury outboard motor. Some common items that may be included in a kit are:
- Propeller nut
- Thrust washer
- Tab washer or cotter pin
- Propeller spacer (if required)
- Propeller key (if required)
How do I replace a stripped Mercury prop nut?
If the propeller nut on your Mercury outboard has become stripped, it's important to replace it before using the motor again. Here are the steps to replace a stripped Mercury prop nut:
- Use a wrench to remove the old stripped propeller nut from the propeller shaft. If the nut is severely stripped, you may need to use a special tool to remove it, such as a nut splitter or a chisel.
- Inspect the propeller shaft threads for any damage or wear. If the threads are damaged, you may need to have the propeller shaft repaired or replaced before installing a new nut.
- Clean the propeller shaft threads using a wire brush or other appropriate tool.
- Install the new propeller nut onto the propeller shaft. Make sure that the nut threads on smoothly and easily, and that it is tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the propeller nut to the proper torque setting specified in your Mercury outboard owner's manual.
- Once the new propeller nut is installed and tightened, reinstall the propeller onto the shaft and tighten it using the same torque wrench and specifications as the nut.
- Finally, perform a visual inspection of the propeller and propeller nut to ensure that they are installed correctly and securely.
If you're unsure about any of these steps, or if you're not comfortable performing the repair yourself, it's always best to consult a qualified marine technician or dealer for assistance.
What propeller hardware in a Mercury outboard propeller hub kit?
A Mercury outboard propeller hub kit typically includes several hardware components that are required for proper installation of the propeller. These components may vary depending on the specific model of the propeller and motor, but can include the following:
- Hub assembly: This is the main component of the hub kit and is responsible for connecting the propeller to the motor's prop shaft.
- Prop nut: This is the threaded nut that is used to secure the propeller to the hub assembly.
- Split pin: This is a small metal pin that is inserted through a hole in the prop shaft to prevent the prop nut from loosening.
- Thrust washer: This is a washer that is located between the propeller and the hub assembly and helps to distribute the load and prevent wear.
- Prop spacer: This is a spacer that is sometimes used to ensure that the propeller is properly aligned with the motor's prop shaft.
- Propeller key: This is a small metal key that is inserted into a slot on the prop shaft to ensure that the propeller is properly aligned and secured.
- O-ring: This is a small rubber ring that is used to seal the propeller shaft against water and debris.
- Grease: Some hub kits may also include a small amount of grease to lubricate the hub assembly and ensure proper operation.
Which hub fits a Mercury 115 pro xs prop?
The hub that fits a Mercury 115 Pro XS propeller will depend on the specific model of the propeller. Mercury offers a variety of hub kits that are compatible with different propeller models and motor types.
To determine the correct hub kit for your Mercury 115 Pro XS propeller, you should consult the propeller chart or contact a Mercury dealer or authorized service center. They can help you identify the correct hub kit and provide you with the necessary parts to ensure a proper fit and optimal performance.
What information can I learn from a Mercury outboard propeller chart?
A Mercury outboard propeller chart can provide valuable information about the propeller options that are available for your specific motor. Here are a few things you can learn from a propeller chart:
- Propeller size: The chart will list the recommended sizes for the propeller, which is based on the horsepower, weight, and other specifications of your motor.
- Pitch: The pitch of the propeller refers to the distance that the propeller moves through the water with each rotation. The chart will provide options for different pitches based on your motor's specifications and the desired performance.
- Material: The chart will list the different materials that are available for the propeller, such as aluminum or stainless steel. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, such as cost, durability, and performance.
- Number of blades: The chart will provide options for the number of blades that are available for the propeller. The number of blades can affect the performance of the propeller in different ways, such as speed, handling, and fuel efficiency.
- Style: The chart may also list different propeller styles, such as a four-blade or three-blade propeller. Each style has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the chart can help you determine which style is best for your specific needs.
What are some signs of an improper Mercury outboard propeller installation?
An improper Mercury outboard propeller installation can lead to a number of issues that can affect the performance of your motor. Here are a few signs that the propeller may have been installed improperly:
- Vibration: If the propeller is not installed properly, it can cause excessive vibration in the motor or the boat. This can result in a rough ride and can also cause damage to the motor or other components over time.
- Loss of power: An improperly installed propeller can also cause a loss of power or a decrease in overall performance. This can lead to slower speeds or difficulty getting the boat on plane.
- Noise: An improperly installed propeller can create noise, such as a rattling or clunking sound. This can indicate that the propeller is not securely attached or that there is a problem with the hub or other components.
- Steering problems: If the propeller is not installed properly, it can also cause steering problems, such as difficulty turning or sluggish response. This can make it more difficult to maneuver the boat, especially at higher speeds.
Which Mercury outboard propeller parts are most prone to failure?
There are a few Mercury outboard propeller parts that may be more prone to failure than others. Here are a few examples:
- Propeller hub: The hub is the central part of the propeller that connects to the propeller shaft. It is responsible for transferring the power from the motor to the propeller. The hub is one of the most common parts to fail, as it can become damaged or worn over time, especially if the propeller strikes an object in the water.
- Propeller blades: The blades of the propeller can also be susceptible to damage or wear. They can become bent, chipped, or cracked, which can affect the performance of the propeller and cause vibration or decreased speed.
- Propeller nut: The propeller nut is responsible for securing the propeller to the propeller shaft. If the nut becomes loose or damaged, the propeller can slip or come off entirely, which can cause significant damage to the motor.
- Thrust washer: The thrust washer sits between the propeller and the propeller nut, and it helps to distribute the load and reduce friction. If the thrust washer becomes worn or damaged, it can cause increased vibration and affect the performance of the propeller.
Why is my Mercury outboard propeller slipping?
If you are experiencing propeller slip with your Mercury outboard motor, there could be several possible reasons. Here are a few potential causes:
- Damaged or worn propeller: A damaged or worn propeller can cause slipping, as it may not be able to maintain proper traction in the water. Check your propeller for any signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or missing pieces.
- Incorrect propeller size or pitch: If the propeller is not the correct size or pitch for your boat and motor, it may not be able to provide the necessary thrust, which can cause slipping. Check your owner's manual or consult a Mercury dealer to ensure that you have the correct propeller for your boat and motor.
- Fouled propeller: If the propeller is covered in debris or marine growth, it may not be able to provide sufficient thrust, which can cause slipping. Check the propeller for any debris or growth and clean it if necessary.
- Engine problems: If there is an issue with the engine, such as low power output, it may not be able to turn the propeller at the necessary speed to maintain traction, which can cause slipping.
If you are unable to determine the cause of the propeller slip on your own, it is best to take your boat to a certified Mercury dealer or mechanic for further diagnosis and repair. They can perform a thorough inspection of your motor and propeller and provide a solution to the issue.
Where can I find a great Mercury Outboard Propeller Guide?
PartsVu understands that boaters want to learn how to perform their own Mercury outboard maintenance. From maintaining your Mercury outboard, Mercury sterndrive, and MerCruiser engines, there’s always something new to learn and save money. That’s why PartsVu offers our comprehensive blog, The PartsVu Xchange.
Read up on the latest developments in boating, as well as search for everything you need to know about Mercury engine maintenance.
To get you off to a good start, these are some of the most popular articles on Mercury prop installation, prop care, and much more:
