1991 Searay Alpha 1 Shift Problem

[brentchalmers]

Hi,
I have a 91 Searay 185. The stern drive is an Alpha 1 184R Serial Number OD626549. The problem I am having is that originally I couldn't always get the boat to go immediately from Forward to Neutral. Sometimes I would go to Neutral and then have to pull back a bit more. Suddenly I couldn't even go into neutral. I adjusted the barrel so that I go into neutral but when I did that the push button doesn't always work so I really can't tell when I am in neutral now. Sometimes the push button will go in now but I am not really in neutral and other times I will be in neutral but can't push the botton in. My shift assembly has two area to adjust on the top of the engine (Just to the right of the engine). Also, there is another thing attached to the shift adjuster on the top but it seems to just keep tension but I am not really sure. Anyway, I am trying to get this fixed so that I can know for sure if I am in neutral. HAS ANYBODY ELSE HAD THIS PROBLEM, ANY IDEA HOW TO FIX IT? THANKS.
BRENT

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: 1991 Searay Alpha 1 Shift Problem

Brent, welcome to iboats.
Let's get this to the Mercruiser/Volvo/OMC I/O repair forum.

 

[Don S]

Re: 1991 Searay Alpha 1 Shift Problem

You MIGHT be able to adjust it to the proper settings and get it to work, but my guess is the lower shift cable is worn out and has too much free travel.
Click here for the OEM service manual, section 2 gives you the instructions on how to adjust it propely.

 

[brentchalmers]

Re: 1991 Searay Alpha 1 Shift Problem

Don,
Thanks so much for getting back to me. I will try to use the manual. The only problem with what I think the manual was saying was then when I look at the pictures mine seems different. Do you think that will be a problem? Thanks.
Brent

 

[Don S]

Re: 1991 Searay Alpha 1 Shift Problem

when I look at the pictures mine seems different. Do you think that will be a problem?

What's different and what pictures? (section and page number will work)