Prop has some "give" to it

Took my prop off to check and make sure there was no line caught up in it and after putting it back on, I noticed that if I push on it (toward the motor) it has some give or cushion to it. Maybe 1/8 of an inch. Is this normal? Can't remember if that was the case before I took it off or not and now wondering if I put it back on incorrectly.

In and out play like you are seeing is normal on my merc. Side to side or "slop" in the prop means time for a new hub adaptor. I think you are ok. As long as you retorqued the prop nut m

You are OK
On some motors in and out slop is normal.
Mine has quite a bit.

Thanks for the info. It is a merc. How do I properly re torque the nut?

Merc recommends a set torque with a torque wrench. I just tighten my down "pretty tight". Has worked for years! :-)

Get it checked out. Just had mine in the shop and it was doing the same thing.

Merc has some play in it ,the smaller motors will more play.

The lower unit gears are shimmed to have play in them, most likely this is what you are feeling.. take your prop off and jiggle it in and out, it should do the same motion.

That is a normal play. Mine is Mercury and it has a slight play in it. You'll be okay with it. Don't panic.