motor/prop problem?

[Earlybird]

Hi All,
I have a 16 ft aluminum Crestliner with 40 hp. Merc. Lately when I try to accel from a stop to get on plane, maybe 3-5 seconds from startout, the engine revs up considerably. It is like it is in neutral. I back off on the throttle a little and then accel normally. Feels just like a slipping clutch in an auto.
What is causeing this? Someting I am doing differently or a motor/prop problem? I did not notice this the last 2 summers.
Prop cavitation in the water? Any ideas appreciated!!
Thanks.

[Dutchman]

You may have a spun hub on your prop. A prop shop will be able to tell if it's broken loose. If it's cavitaion you may want to look at how the boat is loaded and move some weight around. Since this is a new issue I would start with getting the prop checked.....

[Gonfshn33]

Sounds like prop problem. The shaft is turning the hub within the exterior of the prop.

[chadk66]

If it is actually coming out of gear as in jumping into neutral, then your clutch dog is wore out in your lower unit. It's a rather spendy party, around 70$. If not, it's probably what the above posts mentioned.

[Spinner]

I had the same thing happen. My happen to be a problem with the prop. On my prop there is a deflector ring(not sure what its called) on the back of the prop that fell off. Put another prop on and all is well.

If you have a spare prop, put it on. If all works well then it's something with your prop.

[bigfish1965]

LAST EDITED ON Jul-26-01 AT 10:43AM (CST)[p]If it is not what the above mentioned, check the trim on your motor. That is the angle of your motor in relation to the transom. If it is too high you will have trouble with your hole shot. I am not sure off hand if the motor you have has a flow-through hub design. If it does remove the prop and check the plastic hub. See if the grooves are all good. If they appear damaged replace it.