Mercury 35/40HP 2 Cylinder Outboards Service Manual PN 90-42794--1, Page 154Get this manual
PropellerTrim Tab Installation AWARNING
Remove (and isolate) spark plug leads from spark plugs when installing propeller
6Install trim tab (a)Torque bolt to 20 lbft(2.2 Nm)7Install nylon plug (b)
1Remove (and isolate) spark plug leads from spark plugs2Apply thin coat of lubricant to propeller shaft splines with Quicksilver 2-4-C Marine Lubricant3Install components as shown 4Place wood block(s) between anti-ventilation plate and propeller and tighten locknut securely5Bend tabs of locking washer tight against locknut
8Check shift operation as follows: aPlace shift lever in forward gearGear housing should ratchet when propeller shaft is turned clockwise and resistance should be felt when propeller shaft is turned counterclockwisebPlace shift lever in neutralPropeller shaft should rotate freely in either directioncWhile rotating propeller shaft, place shift lever in reverse gearResistance should be felt when propeller shaft is rotated in either directionIMPORTANT: If shift operation is not as described, preceding, the gear housing must be removed and the cause corrected