Gear problems on 1984 75hp Merc

[jwr_20]

Hello all.<br /><br />The problem I am having is that the motor will no longer shift into reverse when control is pulled back. I have checked the control box for any problems as well as the linkage of the shift cable at the motor itself, and everything was ok. With the linkage disconnected from the motor, I could get it to shift into reverse by pushing it with a screwdriver, but it would not go easily. Since the problem has started, I have noticed that shifting into forward is also not as smooth as it used to be. So at this point, I am thinking the problem is in the lower unit. If anyone has any ideas , questions or any info to point me in the right direction I would greatly appreciate it. At least this happened at the end of the season, and it also gives me a chance to to a water pump job as well!<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Jason

 

[KCLOST]

Re: Gear problems on 1984 75hp Merc

Have you drained the lower unit lube yet and inspected it's condition? Any metal shavings, any water intrusion, what color is it. INspect the drain plug also it has a magnet on it to attract the metal if there is any...<br /><br />When was the last time you changed the lower unit oil?

 

[jwr_20]

Re: Gear problems on 1984 75hp Merc

I have checked to lower unit oil and it was a brownish colour sort of like chocolate. The oil I use is the Mercury brand high performance oil, and it is blue when it comes out of the bottle. The last time I changed it was last fall when I was preparing to store it for the winter. I checked it in the spring before I put it in the water, and it was fine. There does appear to be a little bit of water in the oil, but not much considering it has spent the past 6 months submerged. I didn't find much for metal filings though on the magnetic screw.

 

[Bob H.]

Re: Gear problems on 1984 75hp Merc

You have water in the LU and it will effect shifting. Since it's the end of your season you may want to pull the gearset out and have a look. Get a full set of seals with the water pump kit.

 

[jwr_20]

Re: Gear problems on 1984 75hp Merc

I figured that there was some water in the lube. Before I checked the oil, I left the motor in the down position for a few days to see if any water would separate from the oil. But that sounds good about checking the gearset. I think I will pull the lower unit off the motor and keep it inside the house for the winter while I work on it, and do the water pump as well. Thanks a lot for the help so far KCLOST and Baitis, I really appreciate it!

 

[1967merc]

Re: Gear problems on 1984 75hp Merc

had the same problem with mine, linkage seemed fine but it wasnt took it in and got it adjusted for $95 ( with carb adjustments) and adjusted forward..works like a dream now