1970 Mercury 650, no reverse after lower unit dropped

[revcu]

Would appreciate help from someone with more outboard experience! I have reviewed past messages of people who have had similar trouble, but I need a little more specific help since I am "mechanically challenged". I dropped the lower unit in my 1970 merc. 650 because I had no reverse only a grinding. I found damage on the cam in the top of the shift shaft. I replaced cam and returned lower unit into place. Now I only have forward and no neutral or reverse. I assume from the other posts I found, that I did not return the shift shaft and/or the cam to the proper position. What is the best way to put it back correctly, or is something else wrong. I do not know the position of the shift/throttle at the time of removal of the lower unit. thanks

[12Footer]

I've never had a 70's 65HP appart, but if it's like the 50HP, drop the l/u. The binacle should be placed in reverse for re-assembly. Shift the L/U cam to put the l/u into reverse by hand. Re-assemble. If it moves durring assembly,(which happens sometimes) , it will have to be dropped again.By the way, please post results, because I have recently aquired a 1967 65HP Merc, and will surely have to change-out my impeller too...Once I get the engine hung on the stand ,that is.Heavy little beastie!!

[revcu]

thanks for your reply, just to clarify, when you say shift the Lower Unit cam, what do you mean exactly (sorry I'm a newbie)? One of the problems I though I might be having is the new cam not on the splines correctly. I'm working on it now, I will try it, and get back and check for a new post from you. I will definately let you know the results. Thanks so much!

[tmcalavy]

when the lower is off, you can take a pliers and turn the shift shaft to different positions. when in F the prop turns only clockwise, when in R it turns only counterclockwise, in N it freewheels either way. put your throttle/****ft lever in F and use a pliers to put the lower in F. now put the lower on gently. if Poseidon likes you the shift shaft will not move while the lower is going back on. mine always moves so I just have to be patient and keep trying...usually 3 is a charm. got it??

[revcu]

Thanks, I always thought guys from Texas were O.K. I'll post results.