1990 4.3L Mercruiser w/ Alpha 1 - Searay Bowrider- Shift Cable Replacement

apexsearay

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Jul 15, 2011
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My 1990 Searay Bowrider with 4.3L and Alpha 1 has been stalling when shifting into neutral (from both forward and reverse) and I found that the shift interrupt switch was not returning to dead center when the shifting was complete. Once stalled, I can resolve the issue by moving the switch to its correct location and all is fine until the next time I need to shift into neutral. All signs point to a spongy lower shift cable, and given that its a 1990, it makes sense that I could use a replacement. I also want to check the bellows and gimble bearing while outdrive is apart.

I consider myself a pretty good problem solver and feel confident that I can handle this rebuild, but its clear that I need the correct manual before I tackle something like this. Is there a recommendation from the forum as to the right manual to use for guidance? The manuals in the Stickey's don't seem to cover 1990 and I read that the SELOC manuals may not provide the right information.

Would appreciate any insights the team may have. Thank you very much.
 

Don S

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Re: 1990 4.3L Mercruiser w/ Alpha 1 - Searay Bowrider- Shift Cable Replacement

OEM service manual #6 covers the drive. You can download it HERE

Your problem sounds like it's nothing more than a faulty shift cable, Section 4A of the manual covers the cable and bellows replacement. Section 2 details the adjustment of the cable.
 

apexsearay

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Re: 1990 4.3L Mercruiser w/ Alpha 1 - Searay Bowrider- Shift Cable Replacement

Thank you very much Don!

I'm sure I will be back with questions, but generally speaking, is this something that a non-Mercruiser certified mechanic should tackle? My expectation is that if I take my time and follow the instructions, I should be able to get through this.
 

Don S

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Re: 1990 4.3L Mercruiser w/ Alpha 1 - Searay Bowrider- Shift Cable Replacement

Most people here change their own shift cable and bellows. It's not easy to do, but it's not that complicated. Mostly just hard to get at things to work on them.
 

denyknap

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Jun 9, 2012
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Re: 1990 4.3L Mercruiser w/ Alpha 1 - Searay Bowrider- Shift Cable Replacement

OEM service manual #6 covers the drive. You can download it HERE

Your problem sounds like it's nothing more than a faulty shift cable, Section 4A of the manual covers the cable and bellows replacement. Section 2 details the adjustment of the cable.

Hi Don,
I am having the exact same problem on my 97 Sea Ray which has a 4.3 Liter Alpha One. Do you know if there is a manual download for that year available?
 

sptjet90Reflexx

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May 28, 2011
Messages
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Re: 1990 4.3L Mercruiser w/ Alpha 1 - Searay Bowrider- Shift Cable Replacement

if you would read stickys you would know that sadly Don passed away. Please read the "Adults Only" Section for a link to service manuals.
 
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