How long should lower shift cable last?

[shep247]

I just replaced the lower shift cable last year, but just recently the boat started stalling when shifting into reverse. Note this never happens when shifting into forward, and doesn't happen every time I shift into reverse. Could the shift cable be going already? It seems sorta soon. Could something be wrong that is harming these cables?

Thanks in advance.

 

[achris]

Re: How long should lower shift cable last?

If a lower shift cable needs replacing I ALWAYS look for why. Usually it's the upper shift shaft bushing in the bellhousing leaking and allowing water into the shift slide cavity. The first sign of this is stalling when shifting to reverse, because the salt in the water accumulates behind the sldie and prevents it traveling all the way.

All this assumes you have a Mercruiser sterndrive, and the lower shift bushing/seal is the old style.

Chris........

 

[Bondo]

Re: How long should lower shift cable last?

Ayuh,... Unless there's a water leak somewhere, a shift cable should last 5 to 8 years....

 

[Don S]

Re: How long should lower shift cable last?

It may also be out of adjustment. If it is pushing to far into reverse, it will engage the shift interrupt switch. When they are adjusted like that, forward is just barely staying in gear, you may even hear some faint clicking in the drive when idling on muffs.

 

[shep247]

Re: How long should lower shift cable last?

Thanks for the responses! I'll check for those deposits and the adjustments this weekend when I get some time.