2000 Johnson 90hp V4 ocean pro shift linkage

[Skybreeze]

Trying to disconnect the shift linkage to drop the lower unit. Have pulled the little pin on shift rod and pushed it to the port to disengage as manual said but it will not slide enough to disconnect. The manual mentions different ways for different models i.e. the 60deg compared to the 90deg version. Unsure what sort mine is. Do I need to undo the bolt on the conection piece where the shift linkage from the lower unit meets the shift rod under the carbs to release this version. Looks like a real @#$% to get at. Any help would be appreciated

 

[npd4432]

Re: 2000 Johnson 90hp V4 ocean pro shift linkage

I have the same motor and had the same problems as you. First have a second person helping you, as you take out the pin side the connector as far as you can to the port side of the motor. As you are doing this to release any possible tension have the second person slowly take from neutral and go to reverse and then foreward to possibly releave any tension on the pin. I found it easier to get at from the bottom of the motor with the tilt all the way up. Use a long pair of needle nose pliers and put them on the shift shaft and move it back and forth to get it out. If you think it is hard to get off, wait until you have to put it back on.

Here is a thread on putting it back together.
http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=305579

By the way, post the model number of your motor and we will be able to tell you if you have a 60* or 90* motor, I would be willing to bet you have a 60* Looper, not sure if they made the 90* in 2000.

 

[Skybreeze]

Re: 2000 Johnson 90hp V4 ocean pro shift linkage

All done. The problem was not being able to slide the shift shaft far enough to the port to release the pin from the shift linkage. There was no tension on it but the shift arm was hitting part of the engine stopping it from moving all the way to the port. The manual didn't say it needed to be in forward gear. Once I did this the arm just cleared and I was able to move it to the port more. Changed water pump impellor and its now back together and running well.