How To Replace Shift Linkage Bolt?????? (Fast Reply Needed)

[mini-x fan]

Alright guys, today was supposed to be the day that I wake up my 9.5 from the dead, but I guess not... I can't get the shift linkage bolt in, because when I push the lower unit up enough for the shift shaft to line up with the hole, It is too small to get any kind of wrench/ratchet in!! I even tried tweezers to no avail!! What do I need to use to get it back in? It is in reverse btw.

Tight Lines

 

[Rick.]

Re: How To Replace Shift Linkage Bolt?????? (Fast Reply Needed)

When it's apart I always spread it a wee bit with a screw driver to make it easier to get the shaft back in it. I can't remember but either in have the shift lever in forward or reverse you should have enough room to get a net driver in there to start the bolt and subsequently a socket. Also make certain the shift rod is pulled to the highest position on the lower unit. Best of luck. Rick.

 

[mini-x fan]

Re: How To Replace Shift Linkage Bolt?????? (Fast Reply Needed)

The highest shift position on the lower unit is forward, but when i shift the motor into forward to install it, the coupler pulls back up to where it is above the seam where the lower unit attatches any suggestions?

Tight Lines

 

[F_R]

Re: How To Replace Shift Linkage Bolt?????? (Fast Reply Needed)

Lower unit rod pulled UP (forward gear)
Shifter at powerhead in REVERSE (rod down)

Then there is room enough. Don't worry, it'll all work ok once assembled.

Hint: Use a flashlight and peer in there to make sure the groove in the shift rod is exactly aligned with the screw hole. If not aligned, the screw will drag on the edge of the notch, wiping the threads off the screw. Then it will fall out, but never at dockside. Always happens five miles out.

I guess you don't have one of those handy-dandy screw-holding screwdrivers do you? I couldn't live without one when repairing those things full time.

 

[krimi]

Re: How To Replace Shift Linkage Bolt?????? (Fast Reply Needed)

use blue painters tape to wrap the screw to the screwdriver.

 

[mini-x fan]

Re: How To Replace Shift Linkage Bolt?????? (Fast Reply Needed)

It worked great, thanks to all! I just finished running it for the first time, runs, idles, and revs great! Only problem, my stand broke. HAHA better than the motor not starting I guess.

Tight Lines