85 Mariner-fast idle causes gears to grind putting in gear

Jeff Leek · #1 April 23rd, 2005, 07:40 AM

2 cylinder with idle set as low as it will go and is running fine except when putting in gear (especially when putting in reverse) --clunks and grinds real bad. Do you have any suggestions on a fix for this problem. I hate to let it tear out the lower unit.

Thanks,

Jeff L

heybaylor · #2 April 23rd, 2005, 07:46 AM

what rpm is "as low as it will go "??

also when you put in gear , do not "ease it into gear , just with a quick movement, do it

Jeff Leek · #3 April 23rd, 2005, 07:58 AM

I dont have a tach. I am guessing the rpm's are about 1200. I do use the quick movement, but it still grinds and clunks. I have other outboards that do not do this.

heybaylor · #4 April 24th, 2005, 07:35 AM

most merc,s are set to 550-650 in gear ..

usually results to about 750-900 in neutral..thats IN the water..

check your linkage ..you need to get the rpm down if it is really 1200 ..it will grind ..

there is no syncros in the lower unit ..just a 'engagement dog " ..

Jeff Leek · #5 April 24th, 2005, 09:19 AM

Was going to fish today, started it in the driveway and the rpm's seemed worse. Gonna have to get it fixed before I use it. I'm sure it will tear something up. The linkage and adjustment is set as slow as it will go. If I push down on the carburator linkage it will slow down, but won't stay there. Almost seems like the butterflies are not closing enough.