72 OMC 100 hp hydro-electric shift problem

SOS!!! I can't catch a gear and I'm heading for a dam (Well I was last night). Left the dock Wednesday evening and noticed there was a little slip before I caught forward gear. Didn't think too much about it. After a few miles of perfect running, I hit my fishing hole and sat a while. When it was time to head home, I couldn't get the stupid thing to fire. At first I thought I ran my battery down, but everything checked out OK. Checked my shifter (won't start in gear) and it was in neutral. Played with it a bit and finally got ignition. Went to put it in gear but just got throttle and no gear. Turned the boat off and played with the shifter some more and then it would only start when it was in gear (sometimes drive sometimes reverse). HELP! -Muskingum River Runner

Re: 72 OMC 100 hp hydro-electric shift problem

I have this same problem.

I was stuck in the middle of the lake yesterday with full throttle in both dirrections and could not get it in gear. Fortunately my boat is older and will let you start it while in gear. So I reached down to the prop (with the engine off), put the stick in forward possition and gave the prop a quick spin. It locked in gear. Got it started while in gear and took off.

Not sure what the problem is. I'm about to tear the stern drive appart and have a look.

Re: 72 OMC 100 hp hydro-electric shift problem

If you figure it out, be sure to let me know. Thanks for checking in.

Re: 72 OMC 100 hp hydro-electric shift problem

Your shifter switch in the control is probably shot. Or broken. What is it Evinrued push button or Johnson single lever? Bet it's a Johnson??

I have electronic shift too but mine starts above the motor in some box thing.check your s

This post is over 7 years old!!!!!!!!!!

Read the rules at the top of the forum and start a new one !!!!