85 HP Force:Problems with Reverse

[drcool]

I have recently found a problem with engaging reverse on my 1985(estimated) 85 HP Force outboard. Here are the symptoms:
- there is a lot of resistance in moving the controls past neutral and into reverse. It feels very, very stiff.
- on engaging reverse and applying power, the boat doesn't go backwards.
- forward motion is OK.
Lower gear oil was changed about 30 days ago and I did not see any metal bits in it.
What do you think the problem may be and how can I trouble shoot this further?

 

[Bigprairie1]

Re: 85 HP Forceroblems with Reverse

The first I would check is the linkage from front to back. Particularly down at the lower unit to make sure the shifter rod is free and working properly. If it was jamming or caught and was not being fully actuated then you may get the condition you are describing.

 

[newbie4life]

Re: 85 HP Forceroblems with Reverse

I had the same situation.... exactly.

I purchased a new shift cable. My brother-in-law had the idea of taking out the other cable, putting some lubricating oil in it, and spinning it free on a cordless drill. Worked great out of the boat, but once it was put back into the boat, it wouldn't shift right.

Once the new cable was installed, the problems went away. It shifted perfectly, forward and reverse.

It may be something more serious, but the cable is a relatively inexpensive piece to replace...

 

[drcool]

Re: 85 HP Forceroblems with Reverse

Thanks for the advice on troubleshooting problems with shifting into reverse. I found that the cable mechanisms were working well and the problem had something to do with binding of the shaft that connects the cable end to the lower unit. By adding gear oil to various shaft locations and forcing motion with the help of a lever, I was able to free the shaft. Shifting among neutral, forward and reverse works just fine now.

Many Thanks,
Dr Cool.