1988 omc cobra 3.0 liter 4 cylinder.

[Bob1944]

I am trying to help my son with his boat. He is in Michigan still freezing his butt off and I am in Texas.

Anyway, this engine is in an i/o fourwinds. It won't go into gear. (he purchased it in the winter)

What does your wisdom suggest he check to see what the problem might be? He is pretty good with old cars and such so simple work on an outdrive might work for him

 

[Don S]

Re: 1988 omc cobra 3.0 liter 4 cylinder.

Remove the drive, check and see if cables move. May have to disconnect both shift cables at the engine so each can be checked individually. If both move ok, there are drive problems.

 

[Bob1944]

Re: 1988 omc cobra 3.0 liter 4 cylinder.

Might be a job for a pro

 

[zbnutcase]

Re: 1988 omc cobra 3.0 liter 4 cylinder.

Yup, especially if the lower cable needs replaced as it needs to be adjusted properly, otherwise you can damage the lower unit. Cobras are far more sensitive to shift adjust than a Mercruiser...

 

[full stringer]

Re: 1988 omc cobra 3.0 liter 4 cylinder.

we really need a little more detail on the problem. like for example does it grind but not go into gear, or does the cable feel stiff and not want to move into gear. does it sound ratcheting while shifting but never engages fully. also have you checked the fluid level and condition of fluid in the lower unit lately? does the engine overheat running on the hose muffs. your problem is one of many possibilities lets find out what it's not first.