"Ratcheting" do you know what it means??
 

had the 38 fountain out and ran out of fuel starboard motor. -gauge went down so fast after reading 1/2 full! heard a noise come from back of the boat -i was told that it is called ratcheting from the drive. can some one explain a little more xr its 525hp set up

You were in gear when the engine stopped and the water running over the props kept them spinning and the prop shaft at the gear goes over the gear dogs in the lower unit. I would change my drive lube, but you don't have to. It happens :)