Johnson 140 1980 stuck in neutral

[Clive123]

I have removed and reconditioned the lower unit of a Johnson 140hp 1980 outboard. I replaced the water pump and unscrewed the shift-rod and removed the shift-rod housing so I could replace the gasket. I didn't disassemble the gear box, as the oil was clean and black. However after screwing the shift-rod back in and putting everything back together, I find that although the shift rod is being lifted and lowered correctly by the remote shift control, I am able to rotate the propeller freely regardless of whether the shift control lever is in reverse, neutral or forward position. I'm assuming this means it is stuck in neutral.<br /><br />I know the manual says use a special tool to set the correct height of the shift-rod, but can I simply use trial and error to obtain the correct adjustment, or is there an even easier way.

 

[OBJ]

Re: Johnson 140 1980 stuck in neutral

Hi Clive....<br /><br />The shift rod has to be set to a specific height.<br /><br />I believe yours is 21 27/32" +/- 1/32,(I think) from the top of the lower unit to the center line of the hole at the top of the shift rod. Trial and error won't get it. You take the chance of wasting your gears if the height is not set correctly. Make the adjustment with the lower unit in neutral. After rmoving the lower unit, move the shift rod up and down while turning the drive shaft clockwise to make sure you have forward and neutral and reverse.<br /><br />Good Luck.