1978 seahorse problem after new water pump kit

[fastmike22]

I just installed a complete water pump kit in my 1978 seahorse 35. I am now having a problem with it shifting into the correct gears. It will go into reverse and neutral with the shifter but not forward. If I stick a screw driver in the hole where you tighten the bolts I can put it in the correct gears. I have messed with the connection for 45 min and just cant get it right. It almost looks like if you go from forward to neutral it is pushing the rod and connections over and not down. Any help would be much appreciated. I also noticed when I was running it there was water spitting out of the hole where the shift linkage goes together. Not sure if its suppose to do that?

 

[steelespike]

If the motor isn't running it will be nearly impossible to shift unless you rotate the prop or flywheel.

 

[boobie]

That shift rod connector goes together only one way The bolts in the connector have to line up with the indentations in the shift rods.

 

[fastmike22]

I actually found the problem so hopefully this helps someone in the future. When putting the two shifting rods together at the linkage there are two bolts. They have to be COMPLETLY removed for the rods to be in the correct place. You can tighten them down and it will cause the issue I had. Took the bolts all the way out and was able to slide the rods probably 1/8 inch each and that made all the difference. Thanks for the help though!!