velvet drive transmission

[rspecops]

I may have what seems like a dumb question. I am still in process of renovating my 78 F26. I have been cranking engine on water hose every two weeks and letting her run a while till she warms up to operating temp. All new gauges show systems operating within range. But I would like to put it in gear and let the transmission turn a bit to move some fluid around. I know not to let it run long as to not overheat bearing. Boat is up on blocks in my driveway. Will it hurt anything just to put it in gear at lowest RPM and let transmission turn for about 10 or 15 seconds?? Don't know if it is an old wise tale but I have heard that you should not even put an outboard in gear while out of the water cause there is no load on the engine. Also the prop is off the shaft now. Boat transport guy took prop and rudder off. Appreciate any advise on what to do or what not to do. Boat may not be ready to splash for another 3 or 4 months. By that time she will have been out of water and use for close to a whole year. Don't like engine / mechanical systems to sit that long without being run.

[alexander38]

I won't do it... you'll not have any cooling water over the strut bearing and on blocks the alignment of the shaft can be different than in the water, If we're worried about rust in the drives fill them up and then remove the extra oil before you put her back in the water....IMO...

[prowlersfish]

Disconnect the shaft , then you won't have to worry about damaging the cutlass bearing . Water not only cools the bearing it lubes it. With the shaft disconnected you can put it in gear all you want.
Running the engine every few weeks is a great idea , its not as good as using the boat . But a lot better then letting it sit .

[gettaway]

Paul great idea !

[rspecops]

Thanks, I will disconnect shaft.