Help I removed shift cradle screw .

[morhaven]

Hi I did a dumb mistake. i removed the shift cradle screw on my 2005 25hp Johnson Long shaft.

the screw will no go back in.

How do i put it back in..???? I just looked online at an owners manual all it says about this screw is DO NOT REMOVE. Thats was my mistake.. Help how Do I put back in?

OK I tired wiggling the shift arm.. using picks etc.. When I finally get it aligned.. it wont shift out of gear.. so its in wrong... reading other post it seems I have to open the Gear case now..?? so I have to remove prop, gears , clutch dog...I am trying to figure out how removing the lower unit will help me re-aling everything?

I just go the service manual its kinda vague about it..just says do no remove..

I have never open a gear case before..

i have removed lower units to replace water pumps..

but I need advise on what should i attempt and how to do it the right way on this motor.. its a LONG shaft too.


see video as well

http://youtu.be/ZsLKBXxHotA

 

[Xcusme]

Re: Help I removed shift cradle screw .

Hmmm...it sounds like you got it installed OK.
Try this:
Install in like before, Then try rotating the flywheel (CLOCK-WISE ONLY) a small amount, you should reach a point where it will shift to all 3 positions.

 

[Rick.]

Re: Help I removed shift cradle screw .

Unfortunately it is a common mistake made. Try laying the engine on it's side for the alignment. It does help. Once you get your pick in try putting it in neutral before the bolt is installed. I'm thinking your not getting it into the cradle or it would shift properly. Like above post, you may need to rotate the flywheel for it to shift which is normal. Best of luck. Rick.

 

[geoffwga1]

Re: Help I removed shift cradle screw .

A lesson learned,I think most of us have done it,but it's not the end of life as we know it. As Rick says it is possible to get it back in though a bit fiddly and even if you can't get it back in and have to take off the skeg it is the first thing you see right there on top,no need to disturb anything else.Good Luck.

 

[morhaven]

Re: Help I removed shift cradle screw .

ok i can't get it to shift.. trust me I tried for like 4 hours...so it seems like i will have to remove the lower unit or can should I take the prop off and remove al the gears behind it? so i need special tools?