1985 merc 9.8 shifting issue

[green4themoney]

Hey guys i recently rebuilt my merc 9.8 and it runs like a top. only issue is i can barely shift it in reverse.... there is serious binding..... i looked down low and seen the reverse lock cam was binding against the liftrod and i couldnt shift it until i pulled it out. i did have the powerhead off and also changed the other gasket when i lifted the lower cowl off the driveshaft housing. did something go back fuckey? i dont even know how that cam is supposed to sit

 

[tommarvin]

Hey, we have twin 115hp EFI, i dont have a clue about your 9.8.
What i do know is it worked before you rebuilt it OUCH no disrespect got to love Aretha
Anyway you need to tear it apart and figure out what is wrong with reverse gear, it will be obvious and a easy fix.

 

[Scott Danforth]

the mechanism is plastic. I had mine apart and back together about a dozen times cleaning old gunk out of it prior to it working correctly.

 

[green4themoney]

Hey guys tore it apart what a basterd to get too! it was the reverse lock cam/ shift cam for shift shaft yes it is plastic, when i ripped it apart id must has slipped out of phase when i tried to put it back together.... the plastic design is a little chinsey IMO..... but the lift rod that operates the locking arm was binding against the stationary piece of plastic when i tried for reverse cause the cam wanted to over rotate... silly me. engine was running like a top though!