Installing Shift Cables

[mav6759]

I have a 1996 Mercury/Force 90hp with the 2000 Commander Series Controls. I have two issues I hope someone can help me with. The first one is the cables,I have tried to connect some shift cables to the control box, but for the life of me I can get them to stay in place or lay straight. The cables are twisting and when I have one in the other pop out. I have them locked in with the retaining nut, but they are still twisting and popping out. I always thought that they would lay flat once they are locked in. The other issue is the wiring, I have tried everything to pack all though's wires back into the controls. I have had no luck. I have broken wires, wires have gotten caught in the shifter, its a mess. Is there a trick to connecting the cables where they are not twisting around.

Thanks Mav

 

[redneck joe]

Are you doing it out of the boat or while still connected to the motor? Would be easier to do on the driveway.

 

[mav6759]

I connected the shift cables to the motor first, I thought it would be easier that way because I had to run the cable though the side of the boat. Are you saying disconnect the cables from the motor, pull them back through the side of the boat, connect everything to the controls first and then run the cables to the motor,

Thanks,
Mav

 

[redneck joe]

That is how i did it. For my evinrude the hook up at the motor was easier. Like youe, wires and cable poping out i figured it would be best to lay them out where i could not have to worry about having a thrid hand to hold everything together

 

[mav6759]

Ok makes since, because the cables are twisted. So if I disconnect the cables from the motor and allow them to un-twist as I connect them to the control box they should lay down smooth. But if the cables are twisted, I would have to un-twist the cable first before installing correct?..

 

[redneck joe]

They should untwist after removing and you lay them out. But I'm not the expert....