Put a new prop on, several things going on that I'm not sure about. 1. Shaft is even with end of nut, does it need to protrude past end of nut? 2. small gap between end of prop and front of gear case, is that normal? 3. tab had to be removed or prop would hit it. 4. do I fill hole where tab used to be? 5. I cut tab close to flat and sanded down, do I fill gap with modified tab? I want to take it out and run, but not sure if all this is right! BTW, with prop in place, there is no play or movement like it is not seated, it fits well.
You guys are right, as usual. When I removed it to check, I realized that there is a thrust washer, just like the one that comes with the hub kit, seemingly permanently attached. It is the same size and configuration as the new one, so I left it off. I did try to see if the old one would come off, but it does seem to be permanent. It is a 95 merc. I hope it is supposed to be there.
The thrust washer is not permanent and you need to use the one from the hub kit...This is how Mark on the props page says to remove the stuck washer: Put a large screwdriver under one side of the washer and pry up while smacking the opposite side with a hammer...This will remove it...It usually takes only a couple good smacks to let go...
