1982 800 series OMC shift cable

[GiMLit]

1982 800 series OMC shift cable.
Cables are stretched, not allowing for proper engagement of Reverse. The outer casing of the cable is in good condition. When I took the drive apart for inspection and seal replacement I saw no dog wear so it is a fairly recent issue or the previous owner rarely used Reverse which is very possible given their location and type of use.
I would rather spend $ on other things than on a new cable, but if given no choice I will obviously spring the $ for a cable.

Ever had a shift cable repaired? I know in most cases cables are replaced, outer sheathing worn,cracked damaged or just cheaper than messing around.
With these 800 series cables being so pricey I was considering other alternatives.
I could buy a Swage tool and some ends but most of the tools I have found are very expensive. Inner cable can be easily replaced it is just getting the ends properly put on that is the issue. I have tried several marine repair locations and also a custom Chopper builder.
A friend told me to try a local high end bicycle store as he knows they sell cable in bulk just a matter of proper ends being installed there.
I figured I would ask here to see if any others had tried this idea.

Thanks in advance.

 

[WizeOne]

Re: 1982 800 series OMC shift cable

I suppose it is possible but I have never heard of the cables stretching. As for making one up, where would you find the proper dimensions?

 

[GiMLit]

Re: 1982 800 series OMC shift cable

I suppose it is possible but I have never heard of the cables stretching. As for making one up, where would you find the proper dimensions?

Proper dimensions are easily figured out. I have the OMC manual and short cable at its shortest (long cable pulled all the way) should measure 4 7/8 inches.
Mine measures 5 1/2. 3/4 of an inch too long.
Based on that I assume the long cable has stretched same amount or close to it.
I might have to use a small amount of trial and error, but for $500 I can do a bit of screwing around. The Shift converter self centers and adjusts so if cables are out a bit that is not a problem. In my case they if they were even 1/4 shorter I would be within the stroke measurements and Reverse would properly engage.
Drive is the default as it is spring loaded in the drive. Drive and neutral are easily attainable even with stretched cables.

Cables will stretch if the shifter is seized, cable seized tight or just not properly set up. Bicycle cables stretch all the time and they are the same.

 

[GiMLit]

Re: 1982 800 series OMC shift cable

To clarify a couple things quoting from another member who I feel was rather inaccurate with his comments
QUOTE+++
I will, however, properly quote your post and for some odd reason justify my statements with an example.
I thought it was odd that within 2 hours of me posting that, someone started a thread asking how you would put new cable ends onto a stretched OMC stringer shift cable to shorten it because they didn't want to buy a new shift cable.
I don't want to shine a light on anyone in particular, so sorry to the stretched cable person, he is a good guy, but he pretty much states in every post that he has no money.
++RESPONSE
Not that I have no money, it doesn't grow on trees (or at least not in my backyard) boating is for recreational purpose therefore all money is spent WISELY not WILDLY if it can be repaired for less rather than replaced and is reliable then that is good for me.

QUOTE
but the owners walk in with a 30 year old cable and want you to shorten it ???? and they dont have any money but will trade you an old anchor or the frame of some bike they found in the ditch.... just kidding on the last part... but jeezus.. the shift cable is the bloody brakes on a boat for crying out loud. Anyone that would shorten that cable should be promptly beaten with it

RESPONSE
I am not looking to glue it! I am looking for someone who has had a proper job done or not, irregardless of what many think/post. IT IS NOT ROCKET SCIENCE. Tools to do this are readily available and if I knew there was a market to do it for others I would spend the cash buy the tools and pay them off repairing cables for other people who want to do a proper job and save money.
I was looking to have a SWAGE fitting put on end of a new cable insert. THIS IS LIKE NEW FOR LESS CASH . IN MY BOOKS IS SMART NOT CHEAP!!!! I have built and repaired more stuff than you likely have thought of don't call me a know nothing hack!

I have posted on many forums and moderate on a number. From hockey to computers, cars, and a couple other subjects. Never have I been badmouthed/slighted like this!
This from someone who I thought was a member on good standing and someone I could rely on for good quality info. You have posted so many quality threads and helped so many people and then you talk like this????????

RANT OVER!

 

[JustJason]

Re: 1982 800 series OMC shift cable

I don't know what the sam hell you mean by any of that... but if the cable set length is 4 7/8... and yours is 5 1/2. You need a new cable... no if's ands or buts..... its up to you... 30 to 50 on a cable or who knows what on an OMC gearset....

 

[JustJason]

Re: 1982 800 series OMC shift cable

Why go through all the trouble of deleting an account.... just don't come here anymore..... but it's iboats.... sometimes it's like icrack!!!!!!!
Don't let a few dumbasses get ya down whywhyzed!!!!

 

[whywhyzed]

Re: 1982 800 series OMC shift cable

......

 

[GiMLit]

Re: 1982 800 series OMC shift cable

whywhyzed I have no idea what you posted to be banned.

I didn't see a reason to slight me like you did.
I value your opinion as I am certain many people, ones running OMC specially, do.
Hope you come back and hope you post, if it is to help or just to post whatever works.

Sorry if I have ruined the good name of the OMC owner.

Later