1973 650 thunderbolt ? about nuetral

[hallsgates]

Can anyone tell me how to put the lower unit in neutral with it removed from motor? When I turn prop clockwise it clicks and when I turn counter clockwise it turns the main shaft. I am assuming it is in reverse? I have turned the small splined shaft that connects to shift linkage by hand in both directions and it does nothing. Is there a trick to it? I can move shifter forward and backward from inside of boat so I know it is turning the small splined shaft. Thanks for any help you can give.

 

[carholme]

Re: 1973 650 thunderbolt ? about nuetral

The condition you are describing indicates that the LU is in Forward gear. Just use finger pressure to move the prop, you don't need to turn the driveshaft.

Forward: Prop will turn (ratchet) CW but will not turn CCW
Neutral: Prop will turn freely in either direction
Reverse: Prop will not turn in either direction except for the amount of gear mesh.

What is your engine s/n?

Gerry

 

[hallsgates]

Re: 1973 650 thunderbolt ? about nuetral

Thanks Gerry, Ser.# 3662098 Larry

 

[carholme]

Re: 1973 650 thunderbolt ? about nuetral

Larry;

The manual you require for that s/n is P/N 90-68647

Mercury Outboards 1966 Thru 1974 (Service Manual) C-90-68647, Mercury Marine, Ac | eBay

In the interim, here is a link to the condensed version of the Clymer manual. Download it soonest to your computer as the link is short lived.

Small Engine Repair Reference Center Home: MERCURY - MERCURY THREE-CYLINDER MODELS.

Gerry

 

[hallsgates]

Re: 1973 650 thunderbolt ? about nuetral

Thank You so much. I think I can get the answer from the manual. Larry