Mercruiser shift problem

[tisaacs]

I have a 1970's R series Mercruiser on the inline 6. It is difficult to impossible to shift out of whaever gear I am in while the boat is in the water, I often have to shut down the motor work the shift/throttle lever once or twice, restart the motor then put it in the gear I want. I never have a problem getting into gear after starting the motor, just getting back to neutral or changing gears while the engine is running. In my driveway with the motor running running on a hose I can shift with ease and never have a problem. I only aquired the boat; a 1970 Skipjack open cruiser about two weeks ago.<br /><br /> Thanks in advance for any help

 

[wdknox]

Re: Mercruiser shift problem

Tisaacs,<br /> I had the same problem a couple of months ago. It sounds like your shift interupt switch. This switch momentarily stall the engine to allow you to shift the drive out of gear. I was able to bend the lever on my switch to make it work. The switch is located behind the motor where the shift cable connects

 

[orca]

Re: Mercruiser shift problem

G'Day. Tex has got the right idea. Start the motor and let it idle. move the shift inturrept switch with your fingers and the motor should stall. If not, check the wiring or replace the switch. Good luck.

 

[mikeblare]

Re: Mercruiser shift problem

It could quite possibly be your lower shift cable it might be binding or corroded.

 

[orca]

Re: Mercruiser shift problem

G'Day. If you have a siezed lower shift cable the motor will still cut when shifting out of gear as long as the shift switch is operating.