Evinrude 1979 235 V6 won't shift into reverse

[ben239]

Hello all, I'm a new poster on this forum but have read many post that were very informative. So here's my first question.I changed out my water pump last night on my 235 and now it won't shift into reverse. I disconnected the upper linkage and it is still functioning correctly. I can only assume I didn't line something up right when I stabbed the lower unit back in, but I would like to ask for opinions before I tear it all apart again.Also I have notice the water coming out of the pee hole is getting pretty warm. Someone told me this could be from blockage in the powerhead. I just bought this boat and I really don't know much about them.TIA

[Joe Reeves]

Ben.... Did you turn the shift rod when you had it off? That measurement is critical. The measurement is to be from the top surface of the lower unit to the center of the shift hole at the top of the shift rod (in neutral). Measurement follows:1979 thru 1986 - All V/6 Crossflow models = (L) 22-1/16" - - (XL) 27-1/16" plus/minus 1/32". Have shift rod in neutral.

[Walker]

Besides the critical length of the shift rod, the bent neck must also be pointing forward. If yuou hook one up backwards it will bind against the horizontal shift linkage when you try to put it in reverse.

[ben239]

Thank you very much that makes sense. I remember now when I took the rod off of the control arm it was leaning more towards the front of the motor, but when I put it back on it was leaning toward the rear. I didn't realize there was a difference until you guys mentioned it. I will tear it back apart tonight and try to fix it. I'll let you know how it turns out. Thanks once again.