Will not engage into reverse

[JJboat75]

I have a 1979 125hp L-6 that does not engage into reverse until I move the control lever all the way to max position (full throttle) what could the problem be?

 

[gejandsons]

Re: Will not engage into reverse

Is that the only problem? I assume it shifts properly into forward. The first portion of movement on the throttle/ shift lever should fully engage the transmission. Check to make sure you are getting a full range of motion to the end of the cable in the shroud. If so you may have wear in the linkage from the top of the engine to the foot. The shifter has to be balanced. If it is going into forward with very limited movement then it may be out of adjustment. The control box of course has many moving parts also.

 

[JJboat75]

Re: Will not engage into reverse

Is that the only problem? I assume it shifts properly into forward. The first portion of movement on the throttle/ shift lever should fully engage the transmission. Check to make sure you are getting a full range of motion to the end of the cable in the shroud. If so you may have wear in the linkage from the top of the engine to the foot. The shifter has to be balanced. If it is going into forward with very limited movement then it may be out of adjustment. The control box of course has many moving parts also.

It has a full range of motion forward gear is normal when it is moved into full reverse with the motor off it will engage in reverse.

 

[Wingedwheel]

Re: Will not engage into reverse

JJ I'm also having that problem. I changed the shift cam and cam follower as my clutch-dog and gears looked fine. Now I'm thinking its a worn shaft coupler. I have to push hard on the shift-block and it still slips. I've pretty much eliminated the cable because I get the same results when disconnecting it and trying to shift by hand. The coupler is ordered and should be in any day. I'll let you know how it works out