Cant Shift Into Reverse?

[BoatNoobie]

So today, I planned on dropping my lower unit off my '05 60 4-stroke outboard.
But doing so, I wanted to see which way the prop was spinning and such on forward, neutral, and reverse.

So I went up to my console and shifted into forward no problems. Went back into neutral no problem. But it would not shift into reverse. At least, it wouldnt lock into reverse.

Is the control lever suppose to lock into reverse? The motor was tilted all the way up since I was preparing to remove the lower unit.


I've only owned this boat, since July. Out on the water, I've only had to reverse a few times. Usually from loading at the dock. Anyways, I know even on the water, the control arm would not stay in reverse and was very stiff to stay in place.

I usually hear a clicking noise too when I initially putting the shifter into reverse. Once I apply more throttle in reverse, it disappears.

Also, it does not go as far into reverse, as forward.

Again, this is my first time owning a console with controls. So dont know what is normal or bad. :facepalm:

PS, wow my lower unit was on there tight. With all the bolts/nuts/washer removed, I had to pry it with a big screwdriver to get it off. Chipped some of the paint off the edge where I was working it. :facepalm:

 

[gejandsons]

Re: Cant Shift Into Reverse?

sounds like the linkage needs adjusting....disconnect the cable at the motor & shift the motor by hand FNR & take note of the distance it travels in relation to the end of the shift cables travel when operation the remote lever. Adjust as needed..There is some wiggle room but not a whole lot. the clicking noise is usually caused by not being fully in gear. sometimes shifting into different gear selections if difficult if the engine is not running.

 

[Outsider]

Re: Cant Shift Into Reverse?

Have someone turn the prop while you move the shift lever towards reverse ...

 

[James R]

Re: Cant Shift Into Reverse?

If your motor has been in salt water the shift cable could be corroded restricting the stroke. Disconnect at the motor and check for free movement. If that is ok check the shifting by manually moving the shift linkage. If all ok then go about the adjustments carefully. Don't make adjustments with the motor up. That may cause incorrect function.