How do I find out what kind of shift mechanism I have?

hokiepoq

Seaman
Joined
Oct 9, 2006
Messages
70
I have a 1987 115hp Mercury OB (serial #B182522). I also have the SELOC manual. I'm looking at replacing the water pump. In looking at instructions about taking the lower unit off, it speaks of "putting it in forward if you have a cam shift" or "putting it in neutral if you have an easyshift". How can I know what I have before I even take the lower unit off? In looking at the instructions, it seems that's no "disconnecting" the shift mechanism from the upper and lower unit - I assume its something that has a male/female connection on the top of the lower unit?

Also, that SELOC manual is intimidating - it's not easy to understand and talks in a couple of places of needing to beat something with a ball-pean hammer or hammer and chisel to get it loose. Am I biting off more than I can chew? I'd hate to get stuck or wreck and expensive part when trying to replace a simple water pump.

Any help would be appreciated.
 

Laddies

Banned
Joined
Sep 10, 2004
Messages
12,218
Re: How do I find out what kind of shift mechanism I have?

Your unit is a cam shift and either fwd or rev will work it has to be in one or the other to turn the driveshaft for reinstalation, the shift linkage is splined and now you know why most mechanics would not buy a Seloc manual
 

hokiepoq

Seaman
Joined
Oct 9, 2006
Messages
70
Re: How do I find out what kind of shift mechanism I have?

Thanks for reply. What is a better shop manual, Clymer? That seems to be the other popular one.
 

Laddies

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Messages
12,218
Re: How do I find out what kind of shift mechanism I have?

Mercury Marine
 
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