Gearbox

[Poida]

I have a gearbox on the end of a 6 cylinder engine I don't know the make but when I have the gear lever in the neutral position the prop still rotates.

I realise now why I have had difficulties docking as the prop is still running when it shouldn't.

The gearbox doesn't clunk into gear but rather has a smooth take off.

I am of the impression that it may have a clutch arrangement. Is it common for small gearboxes to have clutches?

I don't want to pull it apart if I don't have to and if it is a clutch drive the gap between the plates will increase with wear and overcome the problem by itself.

However if it is a gear drive I may have to strip it and increase the clearances.

Incidently it is a timber boat and is a Hartley design.

Thanks for any info.
Poida