Loud clunk when putting in gear

[SweeperForce]

Hello,
The last two weekends I was out on the water, everytime I would put it into gear, I heard a loud clunk almost a "bang". Same thing happends in reverse. No matter if I ease it into gear or hit full throttle, "bang". I didn't notice it last summer, any ideas?

Since I'm here, I have one more easy question. Can I install a trim/tilt gauge on my
'89 150hp force?

Thnaks,
Tom

 

[BomerFett]

Re: Loud clunk when putting in gear

Is your idle higher than normal? If not, then I would start by checking the gear oil level / contamination, and the prop for any play.

 

[SweeperForce]

Re: Loud clunk when putting in gear

My idle is slightly high around 1500rpm's. Should be around about 1000-1100. I just changed the oil 2 weeks ago. I did notice that the washers on all three screws were chewed up and need to be replaced. Last summer I also noticed a good amount of water came out when I changed the lower unit oil. At that time the washers were brand new. That leaves me to believe, I have a seal or gasket that is leaking in water and out oil. As far as the prop goes, I just ckecked it ten minutes ago and there is no play.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: Loud clunk when putting in gear

Idle should be 750-800 in gear.Motor warm.
Pressure test the lower.Vacum test too.J

 

[Cannondale]

Re: Loud clunk when putting in gear

Idle should be 750-800 in gear.Motor warm.
Pressure test the lower.Vacum test too.J

Yep.....his overly high idle along with contaminated oil could really go a long way to explaining the loud clunk when engaging forward/reverse. Sort of like dumping the clutch on a MT car with the engine at 3K rpm.....and no lube in the tranny.

 

[SweeperForce]

Re: Loud clunk when putting in gear

Thanks fellows,
I will lower my idle, and pressure test my lower unit. I'll post my results. Thnaks again.

Tom