spinning prop

[mickguff]

i have a 2006 v twin df 25 hp outboard and when forward gear is engaged with engine off i can spin the prop one way and it is making a clicking sound when in reverse the prop is locked like it should be. I have just flushed engine out and forward gear does engage prop spins as it should, any help welcome

[Moonlighter]

Don't worry about it. When the engine is off, a slight misalignment between the gears can cause what you described, because with no engine power and drive shafts not moving there is no force to pop the gears into alignment and engage them.

Bottom line: If it all works properly when the engine is running, it is fine.

[2014DF25ARS]

I have a new DF25A, and it is the same; I've always just assumed it is normal. When I trailer the boat, I normally push the throttle full forward just to get it below the top of my boat. So the throttle spends most of it's down full forward. My prop clicks in one direction and locks in the opposite direction, like a ratchet.