lower unit installation? What length does my shift rod need to be at?

[st3v3]

Hey guys I have a 1999 200hp johnson ocean pro(the year they painted the motors grey) and had to install a new lower unit. The motor runs great but will shut off when I put it gear 80% of the time that goes for forward and reverse. When I installed the new lower unit I did not measure the length/height of the shift rod and I feel like that is the root of my problem(I get lucky when the clutch dog engages). I will be re-installing the lower unit this weekend and changing my lower unit oil, does anyone know the exact height or specifications for the shift rod? Thanks Guys

 

[Chris1956]

Re: lower unit installation? What length does my shift rod need to be at?

I have it in my OMC Service manual. I will try to look it up for you.

Have you checked the shift assist switch? It kills spark to 1/2 the motor when you shift into gear. Thay may be causing your issue as well.

 

[st3v3]

Re: lower unit installation? What length does my shift rod need to be at?

I have it in my OMC Service manual. I will try to look it up for you.

Have you checked the shift assist switch? It kills spark to 1/2 the motor when you shift into gear. Thay may be causing your issue as well.

Yes I have tried it with the assist switch plugged in and I have also tried it disengaged. I have a pretty strong feeling that I installed the lower unit incorrectly.. I just turned the shift rod till I figured it was at the right height I didnt know there was a specific height

 

[Chris1956]

Re: lower unit installation? What length does my shift rod need to be at?

Here, I found this doing a search on google. Ironically it is from the iboats site.

 

[st3v3]

Re: lower unit installation? What length does my shift rod need to be at?

View attachment 127497Here, I found this doing a search on google. Ironically it is from the iboats site.

Wow thank you I really appreciate it partner I'll leave some feedback to make sure this was the root of my problem after this weekend. thanks for the help!

 

[daselbee]

Re: lower unit installation? What length does my shift rod need to be at?

No, not correct. For a 20" shaft engine, the length should be 21 29/32" to 21 31/32". Add 5" for a 25" shaft engine.
The chart posted is for a 60* engine. You have a 90* looper.

Look in the top secret file at the top of the forum postings. It is all there.

EDIT: shift shaft height will not cause the engine to shut off.

 

[Jim311]

Re: lower unit installation? What length does my shift rod need to be at?

I don't think it's got anything to do with the shifter. If it's shifting into and out of both forward and reverse then I seriously doubt it's your problem. Maybe your idle is set too low and it craps out when a load is applied.