Shifting Issues

[Fish_n_Ski]

Started having problems with my 93 Johnson 88hp wanting to jump out of gear at idle speeds. Tried some readjusting on the cable and linkage, but when I get it adjusted to where it will shift good forward then won't engage in reverse and vice versa. Any ideas?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Shifting Issues

has the lower unit been off for water pumps or servicing? some times the shift shaft gets turned, throwing the linkage off. also cables stretch.

 

[Fish_n_Ski]

Re: Shifting Issues

No the lower unit has not been removed since it was rebuilt 3 years ago. I thought about the cable stretch but it would seem that if the cable was just stretched, then readjusting to take that new length out would fix the problem.

 

[ezeke]

Re: Shifting Issues

Adjusting the shift cable can be done in the following manner, once the shift rod height is properly adjusted.

Remove the spark plugs.

The cable should be disconnected at the engine with the control in neutral.

Shift the motor using the shift lever at the engine from neutral to forward and check the propeller to determine that it is locked. Turning the flywheel clockwise should turn the propeller clockwise.

Shift the motor to reverse using the shift lever at the engine. Turning the flywheel clockwise should turn the propeller counter-clockwise.

Return the motor to neutral and assure that the propeller is turning freely.

Push the control handle fully forward and back to neutral and stop.

Without moving the shift lever, adjust the cable to the shift lever using the black cable trunnion so that the cable slips on easily and reconnect.

 

[Fish_n_Ski]

Re: Shifting Issues

Thanks for the help guys. I tore it down last night and found the problem. The bracket that holds the shift rod to the rod that is hooked to the shift cable was broke. Was able to weld it up and got it back on, working great.