Shifting Problem Alpha1

I have a 1985 Alpha 1. I bought a new shift cable. I followed all instructions both online and with the help of the pdf.s.

My problem is that the Drive Unit Shift Shaft Coupler as described in 6cover3.pdf Section2 Its the little L shaped coupler from the lower drive unit that "fits" into the U looking coupler on the upper gear unit. This is the one that should be forward when placing the unit back on the boat.

The L shaped part seems to be too low. There is at least a 1/2" gap. So when you try to shift it does not catch and gets stuck top part and bottom part.

The L part should be snug inside the U part from what I understand. The L part can be moved up into the U part by using a screwdriver but it falls down again and keeps getting stuck when I try to shift. The U part is the bottom half of the shifter piece inside the gear housing. I hope I make sense. I am lost on this one.

Re: Shifting Problem Alpha1

Someone had the lower unit off and forgot to replace/ lost/ felloff the SS washer that goes on the splined shaft in the lower

Re: Shifting Problem Alpha1

There is supposed to be a Stainless washer on top of the shift shaft bushing.
Did you change the impeller or something in the drive?

Re: Shifting Problem Alpha1

Yes we changed the impeller. I cant find a picture of it in the manual?

Re: Shifting Problem Alpha1

Ok I found it. I will look around for the washer. I am sure it fell somewhere.

Thanks I will post an update if I figure it out.

Re: Shifting Problem Alpha1

I went back and searched the ground under where I was working. Inside one of my grease rags there it was.

Thanks for your help I may be back