omc mechanical shifter help

[me and capri]

I have a problem with my 85 omc full mechanical 400 not shifting into gear. I removed the cables from the converter and tried to manually pull the cables into gear. In either direction I can turn the prop manually ,but I do hear it in the bottom case. In neutral position ,no sound at all. Also when running nothing happens. Should the drive lock up when I put it in gear by hand? The cable measures out @ 8 inches pulled out and 6.75 inches pulled in. That is from the end of the cable housing to the end of the round keeper. Just can't get it to go into gear. It is a 85' 3.0ltr Capri. Any help from some more knowledgeable than me would greatly help. Is my shifter cable hooped? HELP. I need to be on the water again. lol

 

[wire2]

Re: omc mechanical shifter help

So pulling on 1 cable, then the other one, nets you only 1?" of travel? That doesn't sound like nearly enough. Is there a definite hard stop both ways, or is one way a bit soft?
Have you checked the condition of the gear oil in the lower unit (at the skeg)?

 

[me and capri]

Re: omc mechanical shifter help

I have not checked the oil as of yet but will, and as for the stop, it seems to just stop, lol. I used pliers as well thinking maybe the force of just my hand was;nt enough but still nothing. Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[me and capri]

Re: omc mechanical shifter help

Hello??? Any Help with this one would be great. Help? you guys wouldn't watch someone drown would you?? LOL

 

[me and capri]

Re: omc mechanical shifter help

Thanks anyway, Figured it out myself.