Change prop in water from dinghy?

I have changed props from the dinghy, but also found it possible to change a prop while on my stomach draped over the raised engine. Attach a small float to your tools, and have a few spare cotter pins! Work methodically. Piece of cake - unless the water is rough, and then all bets are off. If you try it from a dinghy, secure the dinghy to your boat well, or whatever torque you apply to the prop will tend to move the dinghy as much as the prop.
 
yes and lower unit. Secure boat,, attach lines from transom to the dinghy. Get in dinghy and do a dry run, make adjustments and have easy access to side tilt button or someone in the boat to position motor. You may remove by sitting or kneeling, I am talla nd kneeling works better for me. A helper is great and remove watch, phone, wallet, etc. A lift or trailer is a lot better. Prop may need a dead blow hammer or soft mallet to remove. Apply some anti seize and use a cotter pin. Lube the prop shaft seal if it is has a zerk fitting.
 
We also have changed many props from dinghy, a dock and in the water. I used to change a 35' inboard prop from a 3 blade cruising to a Martec folding racing prop with out using SCUBA in 3 to 4 dives twice a week.

Definitely lube all of the parts when you change the lower unit lube oil at least once each year. That way the prop will come off easily.

I also carry at least one extra of every part of the prop assembly--couter pins, thrust washers, castle nuts etc... Also be sure you have a prop nut wrench, a pair of long nose pliers or channel locks, and secure these to your wrist with a lanyard of some sort...

Also, every boat should have a spare prop. Nothing ruins a day, like a spun hub! They occur at the worse times~
 
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