trouble shifting

[altlrummy]

i split the outdrive, and removed the upper unit looking for exhaust blockages. took it to the lake for a test, watching mostly for overheating etc., and found no problems. today just to change props i tried to shift into forward with no luck! by raising/lowering the outdrive i could shift it but in the water it would be unacceptable. what could i have done wrong that didn't show up on my test drive?

altlrumy

 

[altlrummy]

Re: trouble shifting

maybe i'm more than altlrumy. it is a 1996 bravo 3, with a 7.4!
thanks

 

[Mischief Managed]

Re: trouble shifting

You can't shift a Bravo with the engine off, the cone clutches need to be spinning to engage. To keep the props from spinning, put a piece of wood between a prop blade and the ventilation plate.

 

[altlrummy]

Re: trouble shifting

thanks for that mischief, i was really hoping for something like this, but was prepared to disassemble today. thought i read somewhere that i could put it in gear to loosen prop nuts. guess i'll still carry the block of wood!
altlrumy