98 225 EFI Controls are extremely stiff...

[roozterdvx]

Took the boat out Sun. and the controls are really stiff. Felt like I was going to break it right off the console at times to shift into forward from neutral.
I took the cover off and tried to lube everything I could see in there but no change.
Do I need a new control/shifter or possibly cables?
Is there anyway to lube my existing cables?
I just recently bought the boat and this was my first time out with it.

Thanx.

 

[Windykid]

Re: 98 225 EFI Controls are extremely stiff...

Try disconnecting controls from motor, and see if it is still stiff. You may have to disassemble the control and lube, or replace a cable.

 

[roozterdvx]

Re: 98 225 EFI Controls are extremely stiff...

Try disconnecting controls from motor, and see if it is still stiff. You may have to disassemble the control and lube, or replace a cable.

I disconnected the cables at the motor...the control at the helm is free and easy to move throughout it's range both forward and reverse.
The shift linkage is somewhat hard to move by hand. I believe the problem is where the shift shaft passes down through to the mid section. I moved the arm back and forth for a while and kept spraying penetrating oil onto the shaft. the shaft is directly under the powerhead and looks like it's not coming out without major disassembly. Do I continue to try to spray oil in there or is there a better way?
Has anyone had similar problem?
Cure?

 

[JUSTINTIME]

Re: 98 225 EFI Controls are extremely stiff...

keep lubing up
might want to check lower unit fluid