Disconnecting/Reconnecting V4 Shift Rod???

[Solittle]

The engine is a 1987 V4 crossflow sea drive- Anybody have any tips for connecting and/or reconnecting the shift rod on these puppies? I have done it but it takes lots of cuss words - - the eyes are not as good as they used to be. The attaching bolt is hard to see let alone get to. I guess am looking for one of those majic tips from the "old timers" or do I just keep cussin?

 

[OBJ]

Re: Disconnecting/Reconnecting V4 Shift Rod???

I put the shift lever down (reverse) so I can better see the hole. I use a 1/4" drive and long extension with a universal on the end. I put a bit of masking tape in the socket head to hold the attaching bolt so I can snake it back in there. Usually works pretty good......most of the time. On occasion I use descriptive adjectives also.

It also helps to hold the shift rod in place with a screw driver. You can slide one under the lower pan where you can see a little of the shift rod. I'll jam the screwdriver in there to help hold the shift in place and move the rod back and forth to line up the holes.

 

[mikesea]

Re: Disconnecting/Reconnecting V4 Shift Rod???

I do the above ,AND the 3/8 universal has tape around the knuckle so it cant flip flop on its own,I use a 6pt socket instead of the 12 ,I put a piece of tape across the opening of the socket and JAMB the damn bolt pin in there, then I use a pair of needle vice grips on the shift shaft either under the pan close to the carbs or down by the lower unit where it may be exposed if the foam seal is worn away. Then theres always the looooooooong needle nose pliers or the grip tools,but the grip tools can be more trouble than their worth. Depends whose tool box I have to use

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Disconnecting/Reconnecting V4 Shift Rod???

All I can add to the above is that I use a mechanics finger grabbing tool to hold and install the shift shoulder bolt. This tool allows more viewing room to put that *&^$$*!!*&## bolt where it belongs.

 

[OBJ]

Re: Disconnecting/Reconnecting V4 Shift Rod???

So in sumation......piece of cake......:devil: