[bigblockdock]

I have recently investigated this isue further by contacting another dealer known to me. He advised that on the non rachet type lower units, (that is the lower units that you can not turn the prop either way left or right when not running and in gear), a large SS prop such as a mirage will make some noise when running in gear on a hose. (rattle or chatter) the noise is elimated when the unit is in the water because of the prop pushing against water. On a rachet type lower unit you can turn the prop by hand in the direction the prop turns in that gear and hear a loud click as the ratchet slips and the prop will not turn in the opposite direction when in gear and not running. If a ratchet type lower unit has a rattle or chatter while running in gear on a hose you may indeed have a problem. I do not have a rachet type lower unit so the noise I hear is normal and the unit should be WHew! Hope this will help someone. Butch