Cone shaped propeller nut: Why are they often missing on motors?

Frank Acampora said:

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Depends upon what engine you are inquiring about: Early 1980s larger Chrysler and Force engines had a "flare washer" and tailcone. Later on, Brunswick discontinued them--it saved manufacturing cost and did not affect performance. But, they do look cool.

With the advent of thru-hub exhaust, any tailcone became a liability and again, there was no difference in performance--other than the thru-hub exhaust supposedly giving more horsepower.

On the smaller engines like the 35 and 50 HP, the plastic cone holds the thrust pin. Even held with a cotter pin, the cone can break from vibration or the pin can break and the cone work off. The thrust pin then falls out and you lose the prop when you slow down.

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Benz Mondi said:

OK I did a search, but couldn't find any fast answers. Why is it that on most motors I see out an about, the cone shaped propeller nut is missing? It's only $8. Does it go faster, look cooler, or what? Thanks.

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Frank Acampora said:

They come up occasionally on ebay---26 bucks-- which is about what they cost back when new. Search Chrysler/Force propellers. They are usually in that auction. HOWEVER: That does NOT include the flare washer.

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A2M2 said:

So mine currently matches Frank's last photo. It looks kinda stupid, like it's missing parts. Can I just lop it off with a zip wheel and call it good? I could care less about finding a cone, just don't want that long stud sticking out

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Frank Acampora said:

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One on ebay for 29 bucks now. Don't cut off the shaft protrusion-- you may want to use it at a later date--and it doesn't look stupid. In fact, you can use the hole in the end of the shaft: Put a small bolt and locking nut or a large cotter pin through it and if the prop nut works loose, it will prevent it from coming off the shaft and prevent you from losing a prop.

I have sometimes thought about taking my late model lower units to a shop and have a 1/2 inch extension either welded on the prop shaft ot having the shaft drilled and tapped to again add an extension.

Jiggs: Your shaft MUST have the extra length on it to mount the cone. Later Force lower units did not have it and while the flare washer can be used as a spacer, the cone will not mount. It slips over the end of the shaft and a screw (the same part as the shift pivot screw goes into a hole in the shaft.

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