Merc 110 Shift problem

[oldcase]

My 1971 9.8 shifter was stuck when I bought it. After removing the LU, the shift cam acts reversed since rotating the shift shaft all the way clockwise puts it in reverse. Did Mercury make an opposite hand housing? When I looked at the internal casting pics online of other housings, I see a stop cast in the cavity on the motor's left side that wouldn't allow the cam to be flipped I think. Is mine on the right side? I'm trying not to get into the LU for this impeller job.

 

[racerone]

Serial is required !

 

[oldcase]

The serial is 3181538. After some research it seems the lower housings from 1967-1970 are a different casting # and perhaps the LU was changed to an earlier year unit in the past is my thinking. Oh yes, this is my first stab at an outboard and of course that's obvious. Much appreciate any insight.

 

[racerone]

Use a vicegrip.--Turn counterclock wise on shift rod.---What happens then ?

 

[oldcase]

All the way counter clockwise puts it in forward.

 

[merc850]

Turn the shift handle in the cowling and see which way it turns then put it in N then turn the LU shift shaft the same way into N then assemble, put grease on the drive and shift shafts.

 

[oldcase]

So the cowling shift handle pushes rearward to engage forward? Is that normal for this Merc type?

 

[jimmbo]

Years ago I saw some mercs that had the shift lever sitting more or less horizontal when in neutral. On these the lever was lifted up for forward and pushed downward for reverse. so if the lever could be mounted vertically, it would appear to operate backwards

 

[oldcase]

Very interesting. I don't want to pay $30 or $40 for the 1971 110 owners manual so I'll put it together as is. Very grateful for your time. Thank you.