small amount of play in my prop

[nccater]

I have an Apollo SS prop on my Etec 60hp. changed L/U oil today so I went ahead and greased prop shaft. my prop has just the smallest bit of play in it when I grab it and shake it side to side. is this normal, or worth getting looked at? also, when I took out the bottom L/U nut, there was a small bit of material on the magnet. Is this normal also?

[Barnacle Bill]

Sounds like everything is normal. If you start getting a lot of metal then you have a problem.

[Dlogfish]

Little bit of material on the screw is normal. As far as play in the prop I couldn't tell you. Have you noticed any noise or vibration? My rule of thumb is if it ain't broke don't fix it. If the motor is operating fine I'd say your good.

[jimp]

I have a 2014 60 Merc 4s, and it has a bit of slop/play in the prop. Dealer/mechanic said this is normal but I don't know if your motor is different. Small amount of shavings the first time or 2 is normal with lube change.

[nccater]

Yea I'm pretty sure the shavings are normal amount. Motor runs great-no shaking/vibration when on the water. Just trying to be proactive and catch any issues before they get to the point where I have to explain repair bills to the spouse!!

[Bricks]

if it is play between the prop and the shaft that is an issue, if it is the prop shaft itself what you are feeling is the clearance in the gears in the lower unit, which is normal.