1983 OMC 3.0L stuck in forward

[wvwarlock]

1983 OMC 3.0L Stern drive
engine model 302sthrctr
engine serial J764983
drive model 982740
drive serial J313762

Problem: the drive unit seems to be stuck in forward. engine will start and run fine. when in neutral, the prop is still spinning forward. when shifted into reverse the engine will stall out. will start right back up again, but prop will never switch direction.

 

[Uraijit]

Re: 1983 OMC 3.0L stuck in forward

Is it in the water, or on muffs? The drive will "spin" slowly while running on muffs, when in neutral.

Sounds like you need a shift cable.

 

[chiefalen]

Re: 1983 OMC 3.0L stuck in forward

If the throttle control handle is in neutral, and it starts but the prop turns than its the shift cable.

 

[wvwarlock]

Re: 1983 OMC 3.0L stuck in forward

it is on muffs. even when it is off, the prop will not spin freely.

how difficult is it to change a shift cable?

where does the cable connect on the engine side.

 

[chiefalen]

Re: 1983 OMC 3.0L stuck in forward

Ok you need a manual. I have a seloc omc stern drives 1964-86 repair manual # 3400. However if you can get your hands on a original factory repair manual year specific would be better.

As you look behind the motor is a shift converter. Follow the shift cable from the throttle to the shift converter, when you move the throttle handle does the shift converter move? If yes, than it's the lower cable.

 

[wvwarlock]

Re: 1983 OMC 3.0L stuck in forward

yes, when i move the throttle, the shift converter moves. is that where the lower shift cable also connects to?

i am a very mechanically inclined person, so is this a repair i can perform with the right manual?

i have called my local marina and they tell me the lower shift cable is about $400, this seems high for a cable, but does this sound right?

also, how much is your manual if i decide to go this route?

finally how long does it take to do a repair like this?

 

[chiefalen]

Re: 1983 OMC 3.0L stuck in forward

About 30-35 for the manual. Easy to do. Drop the lower unit. Disconnect the lower shift cable. Pull the cable. And install the lower cable. But it's involved and no way can i talk you thru it.

When you have the lower off, when was the last time you had the impeller changed?

This would be the perfect time to do it.

 

[chiefalen]

Re: 1983 OMC 3.0L stuck in forward

Ok i just checked the book page 10-49 of the manual i just told you about. You could try adjusting the shift converter. Try that before you buy anything. Just the manual you need one anyway.

 

[wvwarlock]

Re: 1983 OMC 3.0L stuck in forward

well i took off the shift converter top and one of the two cables was easily pulled out and the wire was shredded. i guess now i will have to find a cable and install it as i found out there is no marina or boat mechanic in my area that will even touch an OMC. i am going to try and find the factory manual and if i have no success i will get back in tou with you for the one you have. Thanks for your assistance