No neutral after replacing water pump 1985 force 50hp

[Kiuppo]

I replaced the water pump in my 1985 force 50 and now when I start it the propeller immediately starts spinning and no matter where I move the shifter I can't seem to find neutral. It revs up as I pull up and go into reverse but when I move to what should be neutral, propeller still spins. Also engine is getting hot even with the ear muffs/water hose connected. Any ideas/help is appreciated, I'm pretty green at this, it's my first outboard.

 

[carholme]

Re: No neutral after replacing water pump 1985 force 50hp

Kiuppo;

When you installed the lower unit, did you make sure that the boat controls and the lower unit were in the same gear, This must happen to correct the problem you are describing.

Gerry

 

[Kiuppo]

Re: No neutral after replacing water pump 1985 force 50hp

Alas, my noobism shows, no I did not. Now that it's installed and not matched up, how can I tell that I have the lower unit is in neutral, or whatever gear I want it to match up with on the boat controls. Obviously I know where neutral is on the boat control so the issue is going to be getting the lower unit corrected. Thanks again.

 

[carholme]

Re: No neutral after replacing water pump 1985 force 50hp

Kiuppo;

Did you adjust the shift rod at all or have it removed while you were doing the work? If so, I hope that you marked the position.

Did you remove the screw on the side of the lower unit which holds item 34 in place per this link:

http://www.crowleymarine.com/mercury-outboard/parts/1213_11.cfm

For neutral, prop should turn freely, either direction


Gerry