'88 Force 125 in forward gear only

[flywoman]

I replaced the impeller on my 88 Force 125 and now it is only operating in first gear. When I start it (controller in neutral) it runs as if it is in first gear. I took it out on the lake and it is as if it stuck in forward. If I put it in reverse and give it some gas it goes forward.<br /><br />I made sure that the shift rod was hooked up correctly and is moving appropriately when the controller is moved. It seems that the lower portion of the rod has become disconnected/broken off from the gears it is supposed to be shifting.<br /><br />Anyone have any other thoughts before I tear open the lower unit? Will I have to tear it totally apart to fix this problem? Thanks.

 

[Scaaty]

Re: '88 Force 125 in forward gear only

Do you have a manual? If not get one. Make sure that the pin is in at the right angle connector (its adjustable), and if it moves smoothly up and down while turning the prop and you still only have forward, ya got a problem. You also might have something jammed...its no fun putting the lower back up. Also there is a screw in the nose cone "just above" where you drain the gear oil. If you took that screw out (about 1 1/2 inches long)you have let the shift fork fall down (its the pivot bolt), and NOW you need to pull the whole thing apart. Also use waterproof grease the whole driveshaft..corrode and snap in half near the top. Weak link, and later years went to a 2-piece. Used to party N. Ill Chain of Lakes! Now West coast. Any other questions email direct...I just did my Force 125 1988 lower.... Hogrider@Myway.com