alpha 1 grinds into gear

[searaysrv]

I have a 1987 3.7 Mearc. with alpha 1 drive. The lower unit sometmes grinds going into forward. Could this be caused by a bad shift cable or would it be in the lower unit itself? The cable seems to be properly adjusted. Thanks very much

 

[Trent]

Re: alpha 1 grinds into gear

If it's never been changed it might be a sticking lower shift cable and time to replace. Check this out before replacing.<br /><br /> web page

 

[flashback]

Re: alpha 1 grinds into gear

One other thing that may be happening, I have an 83 year old dad that loves to drive my boat, but he has a bad habit of shifting gears too slowly. I know he is just trying to be gentle with my 23 year old boat, but believe me, it likes to be shifted quickly and firmly..Yea I know i sound like dear abby. sorry . Trent most likely has the answer your looking for.......goood luck.....

 

[karayj]

Re: alpha 1 grinds into gear

I too have a alpha 1 I had the same problem check linkage on the engine and cable also the shifter linkage should be checked the cable sits in a plastic linkage bracket and wears out..

 

[llerrad]

Re: alpha 1 grinds into gear

This year of outdrive likes quick firm shift plus check engine idle speed. If engine idle too high will grind as you shift instead of that good thunk into gear.

 

[ya mon]

Re: alpha 1 grinds into gear

replace the shift cable. the boat is 15 years old and mercuisers are known for that problem. ya mon

 

[FatBack]

Re: alpha 1 grinds into gear

Your interruptor could be going or not working at all. Although, you've got to smartly shift dragging the shift will cause grinding.

 

[pburchett]

Re: alpha 1 grinds into gear

I have the same set up and after lots of work and money I found that I still had the same problem. The only solution is to shift fast. Shift like it is a sports car and you are going for 3rd gear rubber.

 

[kdmiller8251]

Re: alpha 1 grinds into gear

I had the same problem.. A word shift cable was the problem....

 

[Doug Durako]

Re: alpha 1 grinds into gear

Engine rpm at idle is key---difference between 750 rpm and 800 rpm may not seem like much, but it matters here.<br /><br />In my opinion, Merc made this more complicated when they "improved" the shift mechanism with the stupid red lockout button in that plastic handle. In the old days, you could train a new person to shift correctly by just pushing the lever forward with one smooth motion.<br /><br />Now they have to hold that button in the handle up and push with what seems to be to much force to get the thing to move.