'78 johnson javelin 85 hp shifting problem...

[Gary85_]

Hello again.<br /><br />Seems it takes twice as much linkage movement to shift into reverse as it takes to put into forward. To actually get to reverse the linkage has to be up against the motor. I simply cannnot get cables to make up that much adjustment. I have 2 control boxes. Both are exactly same Evinrude power pilots. I figure something is wore out but not sure what. I attempted taking lower unit off today with not much luck. Can someone advise me what they think might be wore out? And where is the hidden bolt on my foot?<br /><br />Thanks in advance.

 

[Basscat 1]

Re: '78 johnson javelin 85 hp shifting problem...

Inside the shifter housing, the shift lever assembly usually wears and will cause the type of problem you are describing. This is common. Item 2 here: web page <br />I had this problem before. Also check your shift and throttle cables. When disconected, you should be able to move them freely by hand. They are not to expensive to replace, about $2.00 a foot if I remember correctly.<br />I hope this helps.

 

[Gary85_]

Re: '78 johnson javelin 85 hp shifting problem...

Sorry I wasn't a bit more clear. The cables seem fine all move well and when not connected to motor work great. They will move the linkage on motor about 2-2 1/2" total. But it takes more than that to make it shift into reverse. Even full adjustment on cable is not enuff to make it go into reverse . But with cables off and shifting by hand, reverse can be achieved. It just seems that there is alot of slack but I can't pinpoint it. The linkage itself that cables attach to do have some wobbly looseness, but not in the push/pull way.<br /><br />Any help getting lower unit off?

 

[Basscat 1]

Re: '78 johnson javelin 85 hp shifting problem...

Did you have the lower unit off recently? You may need to adjust the shifting rod that goes down inside. I havent never done it before, but I cant imagine why you would have adjust it unless somebody tampered with it.<br />Again, --------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Inside the shifter housing, the shift lever assembly usually wears and will cause the type of problem you are describing. This is common. Item 2 here: web page

 

[Gary85_]

Re: '78 johnson javelin 85 hp shifting problem...

I am in process of entering the lower unit now for further investigation. I have to change seals anyway.<br />I have recently just bought the boat (my 1st) and trying to restore it to dependable condition.<br />I didn't pay all that much for the boat but it's costing a big plenty as the days unfold and the problems arise.

 

[Basscat 1]

Re: '78 johnson javelin 85 hp shifting problem...

Welcome to the world of boats, and iboats.<br />Thats why most of are on here to seek advice and instructions from others to fix our problems and save a few $$$ in the mean time. Just remeber though, there is no right way to do a wrong thing. This is especially true when it comes to boats. Get your hands on a shop manual. I bought an older Clymers manual and it is pretty good. From what I hear on this forum, the newer Clymers are not as informative. I also lucked out and found a OMC shop manual on ebay. If you come across one, spend the money now for it, and it will save you money in the long run. You will always find something about your boat everytime you take it out that you will want to change. So get the shop manual.