Don and others that might know

[5keepers2]

2018 Mercury 150 HP 4/stroke S/N 2B544452. Bought new in March 2018 has 52 hours.
There is a very thin plastic ring that fits just inside lower unit housing right behind prop.
I can't see a purpose for it unless it is to keep out debris.
Mine is loose and I found it today when I took boat out resting against back of prop.
I put it back in place but I know it won't stay.
What should I do?
I think there are 3 options:
1- get a new one and see if it fits better and will stay in place.
2- break it in half and lift it out and don't worry about it.
3- nothing
Thanks for help!
I will look for part number and post it if I can find.

[bshort]

They’re cheap. I bought a few, as mine kept wiggling loose. Before I bought a few spares, I heated the tabs with a lighter, bent the in a bit and it held.

[EuropeanAM]

Sounds like it's done it's job, which is to protect the bore of the gearcase from damage if foreign material gets between prop and gearcase.

As bshort suggested- get a replacement, you can heat the tabs with a lighter or heat gun and "cheat" them a bit tighter if you want.

Just be sure to replace it... it really does serve a purpose.

[5keepers2]

Anybody got a part # for this?
I can't seem to find it on mercury site for my motor.
Thanks

[bshort]

If it’s 8m0054695, I have 3 that I can send you. Ordered those by mistake one time.

[5keepers2]

If it’s 8m0054695, I have 3 that I can send you. Ordered those by mistake one time.

Shoot me a PM with details and Thanks!

[EuropeanAM]

Nice!