Merc Neutral Safety Switch problem

[jfeltch]

I have a 1999 Sea Ray Sundeck 21 with a Merc 5.0 EFI. Last time out, most of the time when I would shift from forward into reverse, the engine kept dying. The same problem from neutral into reverse. Going from N to forward is fine. I was told the Neutral Safety Switch is the likely problem.

If it is the NSS, can I buy that part only?

Thanks for any help.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Merc Neutral Safety Switch problem

Welcome to iboats.......
The problem is likely the lower shift cable......
They get corroded/wear out....
The fact that the engine dies when shifted means the switch is working....
Replace the lower shift cable......
While you are at it, check the condition of the u joint bellows, if they are original, replace them as they are at or near the end of there service life as well.....
If they fail, you will be in for some real problems......​

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Merc Neutral Safety Switch problem

http://www-alt.mercurymarine.com/mnetdata/SERVICE/CRUISER/Servmanl/14/combined SM14 updated.pdf
Here is a link to the manual for your drive, the job is a DIY, if you have some mechanical aptitude.......
The bellows/shift cable replacement is upwards of $500+ at a shop.....

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Merc Neutral Safety Switch problem

what you call the neutral safety switch is in the control box. it does not allow you to start in gear. more likely a bad shift cable in the drive.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Merc Neutral Safety Switch problem

I was told the Neutral Safety Switch is the likely problem.

Ayuh,..... You were told Wrong,....

I think Ho Medo has the Right answer,......

Your lower Shift Cable, if Bad, will exibit these symptoms.....
While you're in the gimbel housing,..
A Close inspection of the Bellows would be a Good Idea, as you're about Due for replacement of them too.....