2003, 40 hp Yahmaha 4 stroke,

[Rick Mc]

Won't go into forward gear this season. Reverse works. No work was done on the lower unit this winter. Upper linkage appears fine.

 

[handle]

Did you change the gear oil out last year? If not did you pull the lower plug and check for water in the unit before you put it away for the winter?

 

[Rick Mc]

I just bought the boat and motor from a private party, and he says he did change out the gear oil last year before storing for the winter.
Did not pull the lower unit.

 

[99yam40]

need to look to see what is moving and what is not

 

[Rick Mc]

Vice, not sure what u mean? Upper linkage near motor head is free and seems to be working. Can't force the lever the linkage is connected to into forward by hand when i disconnect it. I can push it into reverse however.

 

[Silvertip]

Disconnect the shift cable and then shift the engine manually (engine running). If things work ok that way, the problem is in the control box or the cable. You shouldn't try shifting an outboard with the engine stopped, Just like a stick shift car, if the gears aren't aligned they cannot engage. You can have someone turn the prop by hand if have an assistant.