1991 6hp Johnson Stuck in Forward

[imported_fishbum]

Hello all,

I am new to the board. I have performed a search here and only further confused myself.

Problem: My 1991 Johnson Sailmaster 6hp is stuck in forward. I can't move the shifter into neutral or reverse. When I turn the prop I can see the top of the motor spinning so I dont think the actual transmission is jammed.

Confusion: Can I start the motor with the transmission in Forward? Someone suggested that I should get the motor running and then try shifting.

Next step: I think I should pull the lower unit off the motor to see if I can move the shifter then. Agree/disagree??

Thanks very much for any and all help!!

Jeremy

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1991 6hp Johnson Stuck in Forward

have you tried turning the prop and shifting at the same time. if it won't then possible the shift rod has come loose.

 

[rbestsc]

Re: 1991 6hp Johnson Stuck in Forward

If its binding when your trying to shift it neutral or to reverse you will have to take the lower unit off, then actuate the shifter rod up and down to try to break it free.
Taking the bearing unit and gears out is tricky and hard depending on the corrosion, but can be done with a manual and the proper tools.

 

[imported_fishbum]

Re: 1991 6hp Johnson Stuck in Forward

I have tried to shift it while turning the prop with no success. Thanks for the info guys.

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: 1991 6hp Johnson Stuck in Forward

You might check and see that your throttle is at idle.There is linkage that has to work together.

DHP

 

[freddyray21]

Re: 1991 6hp Johnson Stuck in Forward

it's real easy to drop the lower unit to see if the shift rod is hanging up.

 

[imported_fishbum]

Re: 1991 6hp Johnson Stuck in Forward

Thanks - I have tried shifting while working the throttle through the full range. Idle --> WOT. No luck. I will drop the lower unit this evening.

 

[imported_fishbum]

Re: 1991 6hp Johnson Stuck in Forward

Well - I dropped the lower unit and here is what I found:

The shift lever on the motor now moves freely with the lower unit removed.

The shift shaft that sticks out of the lower unit does not move at all.

It appears that the shift mechanism is jammed or bound inside the lower unit. Is this a job that you guys think I should tackle myself, or should I take the lower unit to a shop??

Thanks again,

Jeremy