1994 70hp murcury force wont shift into neutral

[pontoon77]

i have a 1994 70hp murcury force that wont shift into neutral.. i was out on the lake started the motor and had it in neutral idled up a little warming it up and all of a sudden it just kicked into gear so i shut it off and now it wont go into neutral. its stuck in gear. It shifts into F N R on the shifter and you can see the shifting rod that goes down into the lower end going up and down when i shift it.. would appreciate any help. thanks

[roscoe]

Welcome to iboats pontoon77.

You need to take a closer look at the shift rod.

Make sure it is moving at the top.
Make sure the coupler is still connected and tight. It is located on the starboard side of the engine, next to the tilt and trim pump.
If the coupler is loose, are disconnected, you will have to do some tinkering to make sure it is adjusted to the correct location before tightening it down.

Then look at the shift rod where it enters the lower unit to make sure it is moving there.


If the shift rod is moving along its entire length, then the problem is likely in the lower unit.

This may be minor, but will be time consuming.
The shift rod pivot screw may have come out, or loose. It holds the shift rod in position in the gearcase.
The screw is located on the side of the gearcase, in line with the prop shaft, phillips head.
If it is in, and tight, DO NOT remove it. Usually need to disassemble the gearcase to get it back in proper position. If not in the correct position, the thing may grenade the gears.

If you have to open up the gearcase, get yourself a manual, factory service manual is preferred, try ebay. Otherwise, a Clymer Force repair manual can get you through it.