1970 Evinrude 25 shift problem

[fred schroeder]

I have a 1970, 25 HP twin Evinrude with mechanical shift that - for several years - has been a bit difficult to get into reverse. Last weekend, we lost completely the ability to shift into either forward or reverse using the regular gear shift handle. I have taken off the inspection plate to look at the connector for the upper and lower shift rods. When actuated with a screw driver the shift moves fine into both foward and reverse so I assume that the problem is not in the lower gear case. While holding the gear shift handle and moving the rod connector up and down, I can feel some contact through the handle and I assume therefore, that the upper rod is intact. Therefore, it seems likely to me that the problem is a "dropped" connection between the upper shift rod and the back part of the shifter linkage. My question is how to get access to this back (inside) part of the shifter handle. Can I do this without removing the power head? Is anyone aware of a "simple fix?" If I do have to remove the power head, what is the simplest way to do that? Many thanks for any help. Fred S

 

[DJ]

Re: 1970 Evinrude 25 shift problem

Fred,<br /><br />Actually, you d have to remove the powrhead. It's not that hard-really!<br /><br />Just make sure you replace the gasket when you reassemble. also, make sure the driveshaft splines have a light coating of grease.

 

[fred schroeder]

Re: 1970 Evinrude 25 shift problem

Originally posted by fred s:<br /> I have a 1970, 25 HP twin Evinrude with mechanical shift that - for several years - has been a bit difficult to get into reverse. Last weekend, we lost completely the ability to shift into either forward or reverse using the regular gear shift handle. I have taken off the inspection plate to look at the connector for the upper and lower shift rods. When actuated with a screw driver the shift moves fine into both foward and reverse so I assume that the problem is not in the lower gear case. While holding the gear shift handle and moving the rod connector up and down, I can feel some contact through the handle and I assume therefore, that the upper rod is intact. Therefore, it seems likely to me that the problem is a "dropped" connection between the upper shift rod and the back part of the shifter linkage. My question is how to get access to this back (inside) part of the shifter handle. Can I do this without removing the power head? Is anyone aware of a "simple fix?" If I do have to remove the power head, what is the simplest way to do that? Many thanks for any help. Fred S

 

[fred schroeder]

Re: 1970 Evinrude 25 shift problem

DJ: Thanks for your reply and advice. I'll give it a try. Appreciate your help. Fred S