73 Evinrude 50hp Lower Unit Repair

[sray]

For those that haven't seen my previous posts. The unit I'm working on is a model 50372R. <br /><br />I've finally been able to remove both the shift mechanism and the prop shaft. I'm still hung up on the drive shaft removal. My question is, how is the forward gear held in contact with the pinion gear?. With the prop shaft out shouldn't the forward gear be disengaged? The parts breakdown shows an oil pump assembly at the end of the forward gear. Is there a spring or something that should push down to release the forward gear from the pinion. I appreciate everyones help.

 

[Hooty]

Re: 73 Evinrude 50hp Lower Unit Repair

Have you removed the pinyon gear?<br /><br />c/6<br />Hooty

 

[downjigger]

Re: 73 Evinrude 50hp Lower Unit Repair

If it's like my 72 electric shift, which sounds like what you are descibing, the forward gear never disengages from the pinion gear. Likewise the reverse gear. The propeller shaft engages and disengages with the gears. This action is caused by a piston in the oil pump that pushes the clutch dog in the prop shaft. The dog moves from forward to neutral and then to reverse. Great system. One question I am wondering about id whether or not yours is the same because I thought OMC discontinued this in 1972.