Alpha shift cable

[newtoboating2004]

Iam attempting to replace my lower shift cable, 3.0 mercruiser mated to an alpha drive, clymers manual does not explain sh**. Does any one have any good links to perfrom this opeation?<br />And about how many hours will it take, if I know what Iam doing?<br />Any one got any hints to make the process smoother?<br />Thanks for the help

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Alpha shift cable

http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Servmanl/6/6covr3.pdf <br />See if that helps you out at all 2A-19

 

[Don S]

Re: Alpha shift cable

If you have a Clymers manual, you obviously don't know what you are doing. If you want to do it right with the proper instructions use the Merc manual link Jeff gave you.<br /><br />Section 4 has more information on actually changing the cable.

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Alpha shift cable

I must add that I got the link from Don....

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Alpha shift cable

As Jeff and Don say, do not use Clymers manual.<br />OEM Merc manual is a great source.<br /> Look at this link also <br /><br />Should not take more then 1 - 1.5 hours for you to do it.<br />Deep 9/16" socket is a must. You will not make it without it. Do not bend or cut the cable!!! You will need another person to help you. Guide the new cable yourself and have a friend push the new cable from the outside. <br />Once you push the cable thru the shift cable below, do not tighten the bellow on the cable untill the cable is threaded with that deep 9/16 socket. Inspect exhaust bellow and replace it if it begins to crack. <br />Oh and if your old cable has the plastic spiral wrap around it close to exhaust elbow, TAKE IT OFF!!! or you will be in trouble as it will get stuck. <br />Inspect lower and upper bushings of the "shift shaft" in bellhousing. <br />Post back if you get problems. <br />Good luck

 

[newtoboating2004]

Re: Alpha shift cable

ok got everyhing out, about ready to put in new cable sheath, but how much should I leave hanging out at the shift cable retainer nut?<br />Thanks for all the help this turned out to be easyer than I thought.

 

[Don S]

Re: Alpha shift cable

If you read the service manual, it tells you "EXACTLY" how to do it, and how to install both ends on the cable.<br /><br />OH, Lenny, BTW, you don't have to have that deep socket. Just unscrew the white sleeve from the cable and after you get the cable tight, screw it back in.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Alpha shift cable

Don, <br />Now that you've mentioned it I agree 100%. I got the socket first and then started working on the cable. I think I will sell my deep socket now

 

[newtoboating2004]

Re: Alpha shift cable

ok done and no problems yet, and everything works great. I have to admit that it sounded hard but really is simple as long as you take your time and double check everything. Lenny thanks for the link it was most helpful. thanks every one