shift cable question???

[peanutbay1]

1990 5.7 mercruiser with alpha one outdrive.

ProblemThe shifting of the boat in and out of gear will be smooth and correct one time and then another time you get the buzz and clunk and this is usually in reverse.

The lower shift cable works smoothly when disconnected from the control linkage so we assumed it was ok. We have made the adjustment as per the mercruiser manual procedure. Does this mean the shift cable is going bad?? We are going to drop the lower unit over the winter anyways so replacing it is not an issue but we will be continually testing this boat every sunday for as long as the weather will permit up north and I just dont want to hurt anything. Could anyone suggest any adjustments in addition to what we have done?? Thanks

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: shift cable question???

Sounds like the lower cable needs to be replaced.If it can't be fixed by simple adjustments then it's probably bad.J

 

[JustJason]

Re: shift cable question???

shifting of the boat in and out of gear will be smooth and correct one time and then another time

Carbed engine??? Sounds like either the motor does not hold a proper low idle rpm, or your not letting the engine settle down to its proper rpm before you shift it.
What are your in nuetral and in gear idle rpms?

 

[bruceb58]

Re: shift cable question???

You need to shift quickly through the part where the clutch dogs are engaging. If you shift too slowly, you will get the noise you are hearing. Also, if you are shifting from forward to reverse or vice versa quickly, the prop may also still be spinning which will aggravate the noise you are hearing. If you are moving forward at all while you try to shift into reverse the prop will be spinning because of the forward motion as well