OMC V4 Midsection swap, shiftshaft binding

[captblue]

"Outboard Salvage Shop" swapped out my V4 midsection and now the shift rod is rubbing against the rear of the hole in the adapter housing. It appears that the shift shaft seal was left out on purpose since the shaft rubs against the rear of the hole. Shifter "works" but will allow salt water into the lower cowling. I am now trying to determine what midsection and adapter housing he used that is "semi compatible". Also, where the shift shaft travels in the midsection front tube is offcenter and the shaft rubs against the front of the tube at the top and against the rear of the tube at the bottom. Mechanic says it is a OMC "casting problem". I think it is probably an issue regarding part's year, V6 midsection instead of V4, looper vs crossflow, etc. The motor runs & shifts OK but I prefer to get it correct. Also, anyone know where the midsection part number is stamped at? Any technical info would be appreciated so that I can arm myself with some facts before proceeding. Please no obvious social comments like get a different mechanic, sue, etc.
My engine is an 1990 Evinrude 140 hp, 25" shaft, V4 Looper, Model VE140TXESE.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: OMC V4 Midsection swap, shiftshaft binding

Might be as simple as rotating the shift rod 180-degrees. If I'm not mistaken, the tip has a bend to it. If it rotated a half turn it may be pushing the upper end the wrong way... I am pretty sure the tip bends forward...

 

[Dhadley]

Re: OMC V4 Midsection swap, shiftshaft binding

Common issue, hard to believe the "mechanic" doesn't know about it.

Assuming he has the right shift shaft and linkage - if the hole doesn't line up, there's probably corrosion built up behind the lower motor mounts.

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: OMC V4 Midsection swap, shiftshaft binding

Also could be a warped midsection casting, in manual there is instructions as to check it for warpage, wont make any difference if V-6 as its the same except some tuners where different,and a 60 degree will work with a few casting and drilling mods.

 

[captblue]

Re: OMC V4 Midsection swap, shiftshaft binding

Thanks everyone for the tips! Found BAD LOWER MOTOR MOUNTS. Used a small hand torch to get the retainer/inspection plates off, packed with salt water corrosion, and cracking/disentegrating rubber mounts. Will replace the rubber mounts. Thanks!

P.S.> .I'm gonna give up fishing in salt water and just fish in battery acid, less problems but I hear you have to use braided line!