PCM Power Plus Transmission

[Fatboy206]

I'm trying to sort out a problem on a friends 2007 model Nautique 210, the boat has 300 hours on it and has the PCM Powerplus transmission.

As one engages forward gear (slowly) there is a clunking noise coming out of the front of the transmission. The noise is only evident upon slow forward engagement when the motor threatens to stall, but if you forward engage a little quicker the noise is not evident. It's as if engaging a little quicker the motor picks up revs before the motor starts to labour and want to stall.

The noise is not evident upon engaging reverse.

When I opened the inspection hatch in front of the rear seat (motor switched off) I rotated the transmission coupling/flange back and forth and noticed the same sound and it appears to be excessive backlash. I was unable to move the coupling up or down as I tried to identify bearing failure.

Can anyone advise what the possible problem could be?

[jmo]

RE: PCM Power Plus Transmission

Make sure your prop is on snugly, I was experiencing the exact same issue as your friend so I took it to the dealer. They checked the shaft alignment, ran it (of course it didn't happen - Murphys Law) and thought it was fine.

While I was there I upgraded my prop and had them put it on, when the tech went to remove the prop the castle nut came off by hand (way to loose) and the prop just slid off! The tech said normally he has to use a prop puller and continually hit it with a BFH to get them off - which is the way it should be. That little bit of slack, especially after coming out of reverse, is what was causing the backlash and vibration up through the transmission. Which made since for me since after the noise would happen, I would put in neutral, and then re engage (the prop is now tight) without issue.

Since replacing the prop (Acme 380 which rocks by the way) the problem is gone, I have logged about 15 hours on the new prop so I'm pretty confident that was it.

FYI: there are no gears to engage & disengage, its all friction via the clutch plate. Its a scary sound though I know...

HTH's

jmo

[Fatboy206]

RE: PCM Power Plus Transmission

jmo,

Thanks for your response. My bud saw your comments as well and got under the boat with his snorkelling gear and confirmed the prop was indeed loose. I suggested he check out the condition of the keyway and prop/shaft mating surfaces for damage before just tightening the thing up. Thanks again.