Shift Linkage Position

[FreeBeeTony]

After replacing the water pump on my Mercruiser 165 outdrive I noticed that the alignment of the shifter is off. When in forward the shifter should be facing directly forward. Its off to the port side. Question is this: I already filled the outdrive with fluid! If I don't remove the vent screw, will the vacum be strong enough to allow me to drop the lower half so I can adjust the position of the shifter w/o making a mess? I don't think I have to totally seperate the two halves, the shifter seems to be able to be lifted somewhat. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[FreeBeeTony]

Re: Shift Linkage Position

^BUMP^

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Shift Linkage Position

I just had to do the samething.Tweek the nuts a little at a time going around the horn until they are at the end without coming off.Then use the shifter arm to turn the lower.I spent 1/2 hour trying to turn it with everything from my finger to a 90 degree angle pliers.You owe me one for this tip.Push the arm down and turn.Lock the prop counterclockwise.Lift the arm off of the lower shift stud and turn it straight ahead and tweek your nuts.Make sure the small 0 ring between the lower and upper is still in place before you begin to tweek the nuts down.You can put the few ounces you lost in the vent hole. Charlie