Lower shift cable

[JCFERG]

I have a 1986 Stingray with a 120 Mercruiser. I am having problems shifting. The problem is with the lower shift cable. Before I attempt to change the lower shift cable I wanted to make sure that is the problem. I have removed the lower unit and the stern drive unit. I am to a point where I can see the shift slide at the bell housing. I also removed the cable from the shift plate. I try to move tha cable by hand. If I hit the end with a rubber mallet I can get it to slide in, if I yank on it with vise grips I can get it to slide out, I don't think it should be that difficult to move. What would cause the cable to hang up at this point? Is it time to replace the cable? Thanks for your help.

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Lower shift cable

Why dont you have someone move the shifter forward and backward while you look at it and check the linkage on the side of the motor where the interupter swith is

 

[Don S]

Re: Lower shift cable

It may because the gasket was never replaced between the drive and bellhousing, it may be because the shift shaft bushings are shot, it may be because the cable is old and worn out. That cable is dead and way beyond use. Replace it with a new one. To work properly it should move full stroke with very light pressure when lightly holding the cable end with 2 fingers.

 

[JCFERG]

Re: Lower shift cable

The cable from the shifter to the engine works fine, the problem is with the lower shift cable. Thanks

 

[dixieboater165]

Re: Lower shift cable

I just replaced mine a week ago, and if you have the cable removed from the shift plate you should be able to move the slide easily. Sounds like you need a new shift cable. I replaced the bellows, slide and the cable. (all came in a kit for $130, but I think iboats has a better deal)

 

[JCFERG]

Re: Lower shift cable

OK, time to replace the cable. Would you say this is a difficult task? I have read some info on replacing the cable and am a little nervous about the procedure. Any tips, other than take it to a shop?

 

[cosander]

Re: Lower shift cable

for $140 us I got all new bellows (exhaust, u-joint, shift), A gimble bearing and shift cable. I went to yahoo and entered transom repair kit an found it. Not too bad when the shop wanted around $600 to do all this.

 

[dixieboater165]

Re: Lower shift cable

It wasn't too bad the hard part was getting the cable in the bellows. You'll either need the special tool or a very deep well socket to unscrew the bell housing nut. (brass) Just don't kink it. Don S has some great links to the Merc Manual which has thorough instructions for removal/installation and adjustment.

 

[JCFERG]

Re: Lower shift cable

dixieboater165<br />When you replaced the cable did you have to remove the 'spiral wrap' on the inside of the transom? I can't reach around the engine to get to the wrap, if there is any. Did you remove the old cable from inside the boat or from the outdrive side? Did you do all this with the engine in the boat.<br />Thanks

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Lower shift cable

http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Servmanl/6/6covr3.pdf <br /><br />Thank don for that one