2003 40hp Honda outboard

I have a 2003 Honda 40hp outboard. When applying power something appears to be slipping as it takes a few minutes to catch up. Also when cruising, something is slipping and slows down. I replaced the prop with no results. Is there anything with the clutch or gears?

Warm regards, Dave

It's possible new prop is slipping also. Have you marked the hub and prop to check for slippage

One more thought, Is engine mounted properly on transom,correct height, Is your engine being trimmed properly? what type of boat do you have

Thank you for the reply. Actually I took a new prop back for exchange and I get the same results with the replacement.

I have a 16 ft. Carolina Skiff. I assume the boat and motor came from the factory like this with a 40hp. Honda. Not sure.

Johnnygjr's suggestion of marking prop and hub is a tried and true method. Use that to ensure that your new props are not failing right out of the box.

Slippage from a phenomenon called "cavitation" is also common when the prop is mismatched to the outboard or hull and can also occur when the boat is overloaded. Improper trim angle can cause cavitation and that is often the result of the outboard being mounted incorrectly on the transom.

Extreme cavitation can produce large amounts of heat to be generated and can cause the prop and hub to become discolored. That is something you can watch for as you try to figure out what is happening.

Thanks Jgmo. I will try the mark prop and hub for a start.