Unable to go forward or reverse

[abeza]

Hi all,

I have a Yamaha engine (70TLRP), after starting the engine I am having problems getting the boat to go forward or reverse. The control cable is working, I can see the cable activating the linkage on the motor, when I use the remote control lever. With the engine off, I am able to spin the prop by hand with the lever in either the forward or reverse position, I don't know it that is normal or not. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

abeza

 

[towtruck1]

Re: Unable to go forward or reverse

You'll get more help if you post under Yamaha & Suzuki Outboards. If you can spin the prop with the engine in gear, you have an engine issue, not a prop issue.

 

[towtruck1]

Re: Unable to go forward or reverse

.... unless you have a spun prop. Does the prop shaft & prop nut turn along with the prop when you spin the prop? If yes, prop is ok; post under engines. If Not, you have a spun prop. Buy a new one.

 

[GuinnessLaxer]

Re: Unable to go forward or reverse

I recently had a problem that sounds exactly like what you describe. I was able to start the motor then when I went to put it in gear the linkage would go, but not the prop. I followed the linkage and there is a shaft (Gear Shift Assembly) that goes from under the Powerhead to the lower unit. If your motor is pre-1995, yamaha didn't use a very corosion resistant shaft and they rot out. That's what mine did. Just got it back from the shop with a new shaft.

You can see that just above where the lower unit is attached there is a small space with a shaft in it. Have someone shift the linkage and watch the shaft. If its doesn't move, you've found your problem.

 

[abeza]

Re: Unable to go forward or reverse

Thanks Towtruck1 and GuinnessLaxer for your quick reply.
I thought posting under props was the right section, not realizing
the problem was engine related. I will be taking the boat out of the water
next week and will check the engine as you suggested. Thanks again for the
information.

abeza

 

[towtruck1]

Re: Unable to go forward or reverse

You would have posted in the right place if it was a spun prop....

...too bad it isn't such an easy fix! Hopefully at least it will be less expensive!

Good Luck!

 

[abeza]

Re: Unable to go forward or reverse

GuinnessLaxer, found the problem, rotted shaft, replaced shaft, operation now ok. Thanks for all your help.

abeza