1994 force 40hp shift propblem

[gdomel@wowway.com]

Motor runs great, trim is broken. Goes into reverse without any issues. When I put it in forward it sounds like the gears are not catching completely. It sounds like its engageing but then pops out. After pushing the control forward it catches and runs perfect. So to sum it up. Runs great reverse great, forward gear grind,nothing,gear grind,then off I go without any other issues. Have not had any recent repairs or concerns. It used to idle fast in neutral but that has ceased. Thank you to all that help.

 

[roscoe]

Re: 1994 force 40hp shift propblem

Sounds like the clutchdog is wearing, or the shift cable has loosened a bit.

Check the cable to engine connections for tightness.

If it is tight, you may need to adjust the shift rod to compensate for wear on the clutchdog.

 

[gdomel@wowway.com]

Re: 1994 force 40hp shift propblem

Thanks that is the same advice the marina mechanic said. He would not offer any help on how to adjust the cable. I openned the motor and saw how the cable moved but was unsure on which direction to adjust it. Any help? Thanks

 

[roscoe]

Re: 1994 force 40hp shift propblem

Ok, sorry for the delayed response.

If the cable is securely connected, and has not recently been adjusted, the cable probably ok where it is.

The cable is connected to a shift rod, that extends down into the gearcase.

About halfway down the shift rod, there is a union holding the upper half and the lower half of the rod together. It is held together with a long nut, and a smaller nut (jam nut) tightened up against it.

Loosen the 2 nuts and adjust (turn) them so that the lower half of the shaft moves downward a bit further, about 1/16th inch. Tighten the nuts up, and give it a try.

If this adjustment makes the condition worse, then you need to loosen the nuts and adjust the rod in the upward direction. Sorry, its been a while, can't remember which direction you need to adjust it.

It shouldn't need much of an adjustment. If you turn it too far, you will have a solid connection in forward gear, but a grinding situation in reverse.

Also, when shifting into gear, use a swift motion to pop it into gear.
Easing it into gear will cause more wear and eventual failure.

I hope this helps, and again, sorry it took so long to answer you.
Feel free to ask if you need more help.
Happy boating.