How to adjust reverse lock linkage

[ARLO45]

Hello all.Recieved a 75 bass boat with a mercury 500 50hp motor.All of the reverse locking linkage was there except the spring.got the spring and put on but the rod just dangles in the housing. I dropped the lower unit and replaced the waterpump amd made sure the cam was inplace right and not worn.The motor shifts with no problem.The last owner said he adjusted it,( why he didn't tell me).Looks like he adjusted it where the threads are all up in the pivot.Is there suppost to be a quide to keep it aligned up with cam or does it free swing into place when lowered down?
Thanks the boat was free and runs great but I would like to have it locked when untrailering it.
Thanks for any and all help.

 

["G"]

Re: How to adjust reverse lock linkage

ARL-
The lock mechanism for this engine is operated by the shift shaft. There is a ramped part that fits on the SS. As you shift the SS to reverse it turns the shift ramp so that the high spot pushes the locking mechanism up which pushes and holds the locks down. Only when in forward are the locks free. Both in neutral and reverse the motor is locked down. Adjustment is ALWAYS a result of the part that sits on the SS being worn out. Check yours but I'd eat my hat if it isn't bad. Check your manual for placement of the Shift Cam on the SS, that would be the only other reason it would need adjustment.

 

[ARLO45]

Re: How to adjust reverse lock linkage

Thanks for the response g.When i had the lower unit down i checked the cam and it was like new with no wear what so ever.when i put the unit together i made sure it was clocked right thanks to the info i've gotten on here.The lock lingage is adjusted all the way up into the turnbuckle.I think what is happening is the rod is not riding on the cam becouse it is adjusted up short.when i get ahold of the rod it can move for and aft just dangling not touching anything on the bottom.

 

[Yepblaze]

Re: How to adjust reverse lock linkage

There may be a plastic thing missing that slides over the rod and up into the midsection to keep the rod positioned correctly on the cam.

 

[ARLO45]

Re: How to adjust reverse lock linkage

Thanks! Thats what I was wondering becouse it just flops around.I have an exploded pic of the lower unit and midsection but i don't see it anywhere.

 

[jnorswor]

Re: How to adjust reverse lock linkage

why is it locked in nuetral? I thought it was free in neutral and foward. I don't have power trim and when I go to lift the motor when heading for the beach in neutral it should be free. Mine is locked in neutral and reverse and it is a pain in the...