Tohatsu M3 2-stroke gear problems

[Andy Copeland]

My small 2006 Tohatsu outboard has suddenly developed gearshift problems after a winter in storage, during which the lower end gear oil was changed.
On start up and being shifted into forward the gear appears to jump in and out, with a clicking noise appearing to come from the top end of the unit.
Any suggestions as to what may be happening? Any remedies or adjustments suggested?

 

[TOHATSU GURU]

Re: Tohatsu M3 2-stroke gear problems

Bad forward gear, bad clutch, out of adjustment or improper operation.

 

[pvanv]

Re: Tohatsu M3 2-stroke gear problems

Yes. If the clutch is not fully engaged into the gear, it can click in and out of cog. If left running that way for long, both the gear and the clutch dog will be damaged. Most commonly occurs if the shift lever isn't fully (and briskly) moved into F, or if the shift rod coupler is slightly out of adjustment, say, after a w/p service.