The other day took the boat out and went to take off and sounded like it spun something and then wouldnt go into gear? its a 87 merc 115. What should i check my dad use to do all my boat work but he passed away 4 months ago any help would be appreciated. 

        Thanks

Make sure the shifting cable is tight. I've seen them loosen up and not quite engage. Usually happens with reverse though.

I'm sorry to hear about you dad.

Try to take your prop off, if it's really hard to come of, it could be your clutch. Have you hit any stumps or anything recently?

I truly am sorry to hear about your Dad. My mom passed away 10 months ago. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers.

It will spin out of water but under pressure it doesnt prop came off like it should.And thanks my dad was a boat mechanic for 32 years

Sounds like you may have spun the hub on the prop.

 

 

http://www.marineenginedigest.com/diy/spunprophub.htm

Sounds like you may have spun the hub on the prop.

 

 

http://www.marineenginedigest.com/diy/spunprophub.htm

x2

Sounds like you may have spun the hub on the prop.

 

 

http://www.marineenginedigest.com/diy/spunprophub.htm

 

 

 

 

X3

Would it still work in reverse though?

I'm with JigMan on this one. Check your shift cable. This happened to me last year.