87 60 HP Evenrude Grinding going into reverse

Joined
Oct 6, 2003
Messages
6
Ahoy all. Since my last post I adjusted the cable going into reverse. It took reverse and then I put it into forward. When I went back to reverse it was gone again. Since then it takes it sometimes and some times it won't. Is it possible the cable needs replaced since it is almost to the end. Or is there bigger trouble.<br />Thanks again<br />Kevin :confused:
 

bonitoman

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 9, 2002
Messages
292
Re: 87 60 HP Evenrude Grinding going into reverse

I did not get to see your first post but disconnect the cable on the engine that goes to foward and reverse. Start the engine in neutral on a flusher. Manually shift the lever on the engine to foward and then back to reverse. If it shifts it is just your cable adjustment.Be careful of the prop spinning so you do not get cut. I do not know if you put a water pump in it or dropped the lower unit for any reason but if you did sometimes people move the height of the shift rod throwing off the cable adjustments. etc...Good Luck
 

rickdb1boat

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jan 23, 2002
Messages
11,195
Re: 87 60 HP Evenrude Grinding going into reverse

Very possible cable needs to be replaced due to wear over time. Sometimes they stick in the sheathing and reek havok on shifting. If you really want to find out if the cable is bad, remove it from the motor and the control box and try to slide the cable back and forth inside the sheath. If it's stiff, replace it. Do as was suggested in the previous post and if that works, I'd replace the cable. They are cheap enough to make it worthwhile. You can get them right here on iboats.
 
Joined
Oct 6, 2003
Messages
6
Re: 87 60 HP Evenrude Grinding going into reverse

Morning all: I haven't replaced anythinig only had the boat for about 3 months. I will try removing the cable an seeing if it works as suggested. I let you know<br />Kevin
 

BillP

Captain
Joined
Aug 10, 2002
Messages
3,290
Re: 87 60 HP Evenrude Grinding going into reverse

Before you remove anything check the shifter linkage bushings. They are typically pressed in nylon type grommets with flanges on OMC engines and located between the powerhead and upper leg in plain site. One on each side of the shift rod. These can wear or come out of the hole and cause sloppy shifting...with the exact symptoms you have.
 
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