Re: 1973 Wards Sea King 7hp Neutral Clutch

[Buccaneer]

Now that I know how this clutch works, it was obvious that the spring end
was broken, and therefore not engaging the outer shell via a little notch
in the shell’s bottom. I decided for now I’d put it together without the
neutral clutch working so I could at least see if it’s going to run before
I look for or invest in parts.
I had the gear case attached to the lower unit twice and each time the
prop doesn’t turn when I rotate the flywheel. I can’t believe I’m missing the
clutch splines with the drive shaft. Of course, It’s a pain getting the water
pump engaged in the discharge tube in the mid section.
When I had the neutral clutch in my hand, it appeared that it would turn
the prop fine, even though the spring inside was broken.
Any ideas? I was thinking of finding a long wooden dowel rod and tap
it into the clutch splines and see what happens when I turn the flywheel,
but couldn’t find anything suitable in the garage…… maybe tomorrow.

Prepare to be boarded!