'00 SS Rattle When Drive Engaged

[TBMsNautique]

Purchased boat this year with only 34 hours on the engine. I have put about 30 hours on it already this season and am noticing a rattling sound on occasion when I engage the drive. It only happens when the putting the boat in forward or reverse at idle. I don't think it's engine related since the engine sounds terrific all the time... All fluids look fine and there's no vibration in the wheel at all RPM levels. Rattling typically happens after running the boat for some time. Not sure if I should take it in or if this is something that just happens on occasion. Thanks for any advice offered!

[Erik]

RE:

The same thing is happening on my 2001 SAN/SS. There have been a few threads on here that haven't really answered the question to my satisfaction. The responses run the entire spectrum - some mentioned it is related to a damper plate or a bad bearing - some have said that it is a sign that the sound signifies that the v-drive needs to be replaced. Others have said it is completely normal and nothing to worry about. I am not sure where I stand on the issue. I feel like it isn't 100% normal, since the sound arrived last summer, when the boat had about 100 hours on it. There's no way it could need to be rebuilt at this point but it is also not something I chose to ignore. My boat needs a tune up at the end of this season and when it is getting its tune up, I need to have that fixed. I'm sick of listening to that sound and wondering what it is. It's not nothing. Mine is much worse in reverse and in one-click idle forward speed.

Search for "chatter" or rattle and see what you come up with. Many responses but in I remain confused about what to do. I wonder if it may even be something I can fix myself. Wish we could figure this out.

[skiinxs]

RE:

One easy thing to check is make sure the prop nut is tight. It is common for the nut to loosen a little and the prop to rattle a little at idle in gear.
Dave

[TBMsNautique]

RE:

Just spoke with my dealer and he said that he has seen many cases where the v-drive will rattle just a bit at low idle. The v-drive gearing is not as exact as the direct drive and will often times rattle just a bit when engaged. He said that it's almost better just to wait given the cost associated with getting to the v-drive to take a look. I asked if these drives eventually need to be replaced and he said no provided the proper care is given. I'm breathing a bit easier.

I will check the prop nut tonight -- thanks!

[Laptom]

RE:

Perhaps a bit thicker oil in the V-drive will work out?!?

[Erik]

RE:

That is good advice about the prop nut. I actually haven't checked that.