Shift Assist Question

[ddrieck]

Hey all, Just wanted to know if I can can install shift assist on my old 1985 Thompson 470 with Alpha 1 Gen 1 sterndrive?

 

[dubs283]

It probably won't fit due to the studs on the shift assembly being too short.

Why do you need a shift assist?

 

[ddrieck]

Don't really need it but though it might make things a bit easier I guess.
Could order the install kit to have the correct hardware.

 

[dubs283]

You can order a new shift plate assy from mercury. Can't say that it will mount correctly with the vintage of your motor.

The new assembly is quite expensive with no guarantee it will help your situation. If you are having shifting issues with your alpha drive there is quite a bit of information available here in the stickies, top of forum page

Best guess at this point is you need to check shift cable adjustment and possibly replace the lower shift cable

 

[Bt Doctur]

You dont really need it, it tends to wear out the inner casing of the control cable. A good working control box and cables plus a good lower cable and no corrosion in the shift slide is all you need