1972 100hp johnson... no reverse HELP!

[SuzukiChopper]

I posted this in another topic I had open but it was kind of mixed in with another problem so I'm going to start fresh.<br /><br />To begin with... I have used the search, and I spent over 3 hours reading problems with reverse, etc, etc but they all point to the same thing. I have the hydro-electric shift lower unit. I replaced a bad solenoid already, along with the impeller and gear oil. I double checked to make sure EVERYTHING was in spec (voltage at the wires from the switch, resistance readings, etc, etc) and still no reverse. Forward gear works great and so does neutral. When I put it into reverse the prop (brand spankin new), spins a bit and will kind of move the boat, although it grinds horribly. It does this after fresh gear oil (premium blend) is put in as well. Every post I've seen points to the solenoids and voltage but I now know this is not my problem. Also alot of people have a bad habit posting what the ultimate resolution to their problem was. I have a manual, and have read it over and over again.<br /><br />So I need some help. I'm thinking it's either going to be the hydraulic pump or the reverse gear. Logic tells me that if neutral and forward work though, it won't be the hydraulic pump, but I don't know anything about them. I'm not even really leaning towards reverse gear either because there hasn't been any metal shavings in the old oil I've drained. Where do I go from here? Should I just take the lower unit to the johnson dealer and have them rebuild it?

 

[SuzukiChopper]

Re: 1972 100hp johnson... no reverse HELP!

bump...<br /><br />anyone? last thing I need to get fixed on this old beast, would like to do it soon (going camping for 11 days and would like reverse), and my last paycheck for a while is at the end of this month.

 

[SuzukiChopper]

Re: 1972 100hp johnson... no reverse HELP!

Just wanted to finish off this post.<br /><br />After a bunch of digging and talking to BOTH dealers here, I may have finally figured out the reverse issue in my case. Sounds like it's going to be the reverse gear and clutch dog that need replacing. I haven't confirmed it 100% yet because I'm heading up north for 11 days and will just live without reverse until I get back. Both parts are obsolete (but can be had for about $600). I think a rebuilt LU is in order.<br /><br />Just wanted to cap this off incase anyone else goes through the motions and ends up stuck, hopefully this helps.