4.5 hp Johnson won't reverse

[null]

Hi,

Longtime lurker, first time poster.

I don't know if this is a simple question or not: I just aquired a 1980 Johnson 4.5 Seahorse (J5RCS). It runs fine and pushes the boat forward, but refuses to engage in reverse. The shift lever goes to the position but the prop does not turn. Common problem? Fixable? If it's not easily fixable is it harmful to the motor to just run in forward gear?

Thanks much,

Chris

 

[null]

Re: 4.5 hp Johnson won't reverse

Shameless bump to generate views....

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 4.5 hp Johnson won't reverse

it sounds like the shft linkage was not reconnected properly with the lower unit was off for an impeller change. simple fix. no it will not hurt to just use neutral and forward. but i would check it out.

 

[freddyray21]

Re: 4.5 hp Johnson won't reverse

I am not sure if it has reverse. The 4 hp had a neutral shift only, but I don't know what the 4.5 had. It may be neutral and turn it all the way around for reverse then put it in gear. If it does have reverse then as TD said may be a linkage issue last time the impeller was changed.

 

[null]

Re: 4.5 hp Johnson won't reverse

Yes, it definitely has a reverse gear.

Thanks much for your replies. Sounds like this is a fix that can wait until I get my manual.

Thanks again,

Chris