Johnson 90 hp shift rod disconnect

[Chuck Gunnard]

Boy helping friends can be frustrating!! A friend of mine has a 90 Hp V4 Johnson outboard. His water pump died, so he asked me to give him a hand changing it. I've changed a few in my day, but this one has a trick to it that I can't figure out. I loosened the the lower unit, but the shift linkage is attached dead center under the carbs stuck way in back. With a flashlight and a screwdriver moving small hoses I could kinda see where it is, but there was no easy way to get to it. Does anyone know an easy way to disconnect the shift linkage. The book he has says to remover the starter, but that would not help with access to the linkage nut. The S/N is R08278204, Model J90TLESV.<br /><br />Any HELP would be greatly appriciated!!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Johnson 90 hp shift rod disconnect

Sure - drop the side panel or remove the air box over the carbs. Be sure you don't turn the shift rod when its removed or you screw up the adjustment. Also note which way the offset is pointing so you get correct when reassembling.

 

[alden135]

Re: Johnson 90 hp shift rod disconnect

Can't you get at it with a universal joint and extention?<br /><br />That's how I do my '90 120hp and my uncle's '84 90hp

 

[Solittle]

Re: Johnson 90 hp shift rod disconnect

alden pegged it. I use a 1/4" drive with an extra long extension - at least 12".