OMC 2.3 won't shift into reverse

[Banshee]

I aquired a 1989 Bayliner Capri with a 2.3 OMC Cobra. It won't go into reverse at all even after adjusting both shift cables toward reverse. Won't even go when I remove the rear shift cable from the engine and move manually. It just clicks like it's not quite pushing in far enough. Prev owners say they replaced the shift cable and reverse worked at one time. I found online that the shift shaft may need adjusted. Any suggestions?<br />Thanks,<br />Banshee

 

[jimmyvan]

Re: OMC 2.3 won't shift into reverse

i had the same problem and found that the shift cable fitting where it attaches to the lower unit had a defective fitting to cable connection that would not allow the cable to travel far enough to move the shift shaft. follow the cable down and see if it is loose at that point - goo luck!

 

[Banshee]

Re: OMC 2.3 won't shift into reverse

Thanks! I'll check that out. Did you have to pull the outdrive to get to the bottom end of the cable?

 

[jimmyvan]

Re: OMC 2.3 won't shift into reverse

no, you can see where the cable enters if you raise the stern all the way up! if you find that the fitting is ok - then have someone turn the prop by hand while you try shifting the transom shift cable (unattached from the engine) manually. the shift rod or bellcrank link may be bent if you can't manually shift with the transom shift cable!!

 

[Banshee]

Re: OMC 2.3 won't shift into reverse

Thanks,jimmyvan. I checked the cable connection to the outdrive and it looked fine. I removed the outdrive and found out that the bellcrank range appears to be perfect. I moved the shift shaft up and down while spinning the prop on the outdrive sitting in the garage and if I hold pressure toward reverse, it will stay engaged. If I let my hand off of it, it clicks just like it does in the water. I'll have to adjust that now. It looks like I'll have to split the upper and lower cases. My manual showed up today so I'll be a readin'!

 

[P.V.]

Re: OMC 2.3 won't shift into reverse

Although there is a specific shift rod height measurement that must be adhered to when setting up this unit, And should be checked, you can not readjust the height to "FAVOR" more reverse engagement. The result would be less engagement in forward. And visa versa. It sounds like you have extreme wear of the clutch dogs and reverse gear dogs.<br /> You are about to go into the dilema of "THE OMC RECALL". Had to do with the shift cable and possibly the change-over from 2 degree gears to 5 degree gears. You'll need to have a mechanic familiar with Cobra to help ID which you have so that you get the right ones.

 

[Banshee]

Re: OMC 2.3 won't shift into reverse

Thanks P.V. I think you're right. Even with hand pressure downward on the shift shaft, it wants to push itself out of reverse. For a rough measurement, I cut a piece of coat hanger to exactly 7 5/32" (or as close as I could get to it). I shoved the wire down so it would rest on the lower gearcase casting as per instructions (even though I haven't split the upper and lower yet). It's almost exactly how tall the shift rod height it when in the neutral detent. Also, when I put pressure on the rod in reverse direction, the prop shaft moves outward slightly which tells me that the dogs aren't even engaging fully, they're pushing on the gear. I'll take the whole outdrive unit to a local shop and show them how it shifts and see if they think the same, then I'll tear it down and replace the gear set if I have the pre recall style. At least I know the problem is in the bottom gearset now. Thanks for reminding me about the 2 degree and 5 degree gears. I forgot about that. I'll make sure I have the right ones so I don't have to tear this thing down again. <br />-Banshee