Hi All,

I have a Nissan 3.5hp model NS3.5B outboard. I pulled out the cotter pin from the prop hub but can't get the prop to slip off the shaft. I am guessing that there is a salt buildup that is preventing the parts from coming apart. I haven't had the prop off in the 5 years I've owned the outboard. The prop is plastic. I have used a wood block to strike the back of the prop to push it off the shaft & no luck. I've been soaking the prop/shaft in a pail of vinegar hoping to dissolve the salt but so far no luck with that either (only been soaking for a day). I also had a hard time getting the zinc off. I ended up soaking the area around the zinc with PB Blaster for a few days & then persuading it to come off with a hammer & screw driver. There was a rind of salt around the zinc's perimeter.

Anyway, am I overlooking something really obvious? Any suggestions?

Thanks,

Marc, NS26C, Westbrook, CT