Swapping from old to new shift cable. confused

[Jasonscott]

Discovered that I need to tap the threads in my bellhousing for the newer type of shift cable on my mercruiser drive. So Im seeing some people say that you need a straight tap and others are saying that it needs to be tapered and that the 1/4-18 npt tap is fine. Can anyone thats done this offer me some advice on the procedure so i dont screw it up. Thanks alot!

 

[Don S]

Re: Swapping from old to new shift cable. confused

If you get the standard NPT tap a little bit crooked, it will cause binding during shifting, and will stall the engine because of the shift interrupt system, The only choice then, is to get a new bellhousing. Or, use the correct straight tap as described in the OEM service manual.
Your choice.

 

[Jasonscott]

Re: Swapping from old to new shift cable. confused

I cant find the procedure in the service manual i have. it just shows the 2 different types and how to install them. Any links or anything?

 

[Don S]

Re: Swapping from old to new shift cable. confused

It's in the #6 OEM service manual, not the older ones. mostly because the newer cable wasn't out then.
You can download #6 up in the Adults Only sticky.

Here is a portion of the page on installing the new cable in older bellhousings.

 

[Jasonscott]

Re: Swapping from old to new shift cable. confused

Yeah mine is an older version. Thanks alot! Really appreciate it!