[Demolitron]

Hello All,

I have a 1974 Evinrude 115HP 115493B engine. I have a problem with reverse gear. When I put it into reverse a couple of things happen.

1) The control shakes back and forth and I've looked under the cover and the bell crank on the shift level is bouncing up and down. It also makes a very unpleasant noise. I adjusted the cable trunion and was able to get it where it would fully engage, albeit with a little bit of "grinding" (this isn't exactly the kind of noise I hear) It sounds just like the clutch dog teeth are bouncing out of the gear slots... Also, I had to adjust the shift cable so there is an extreme amount of pressure built up. Basically, the bell crank is back as far as it will go but the shift level up at my control box has about 25% more travel. For the last 25% the cable ends up flexing. I also checked to see if the bell crank was hitting anything under the engine, like if the shift rod was miss-adjusted, but it is clear.

2) Once in gear I can't apply even the slightest amount of power before it starts popping and grinding again. It’s enough to do small maneuvers however.

No problems with forward gear, yet.

Also, how do I tell if I have manual shift or hydraulic assisted shift? My Seloc manual shows that this model had three different kinds of shift (Manual, Hydraulic, and Electric). The factory manual I ordered from EBay shows that I should have the Hydraulic shift. (It also says I should have power trim and tilt *But I KNOW i don't have that*) The front cover shows it as Model: 115493B I got my model number from the transom bracket, so I think it is accurate.

Thanks for any information!

[F_R]

You have the power hydraulic assisted shift. Your clutch dog and reverse gear are toast. Not accusing you of anything, but it is usually caused by "easing" it gently into gear. Exploded view parts list at http://epc.brp.com/default.aspx?brands=ej&lang=E

[tashasdaddy]

agree, time for a lower unit rebuild or a donor lower.

[F_R]

There is a remote possibility that it is a hydraulic problem, but that is small comfort--still needs major work.

[Demolitron]

Thanks for the information. I bought this boat used and the previous owner did other "things" that make me question his sanity.

Is it safe the assume that, because forward is working well, that my forward gear is okay? From my service manual it seems like it would be much more work to remove the forward gear and replace it as I would be removing the drive shaft, pinion gear, oil pump, etc... Plus it seems like the FWD gear is VERY expensive.

Also, I imagine that I should put all new seals in it. Does the Sierra Seal Kit 18-2692 apply for my engine, and is it a quality unit or is there another one someone would recommend?

Does someone know of a source where I could buy a new Lower, just in case...?


Thank You.