Motor kicks up when in reverse

[sdav834]

1982 ?? Mercury 7.5 HP (Ser #: 5938549). I found out that there's a 'catch' that does not latch on to a crossbar so that the motor is locked in running position when it is in gear. I found that out yesterday when I shifted to reverse,, the motor kicked up. I can actuate it manually by grabbing on the rod and move it up and down. Is it supposed to automatically lock on when the motor is in gear ? Noticed that the actuating rod is slightly bent forward, is it supposed to be straight ? Thanks for any info. I am totally in the dark, being a first time boater.

 

[ihearth2o]

Had the same issue. Tried adjusting the latches but never did any good. Made reversing pretty interesting sometimes. One day decided to switch props, same pitch just went from SS to aluminum, and motor kicked up much less. I just got used to it. Thinking it had something to do with the cup of the new prop. Someone will probably come along and tell me I'm wrong though.

 

[MTboatguy]

My 9.8 will kick up in reverse as well, you just have to learn how much throttle to apply to accomplish backing out, to much and it is going to kick up on ya.

 

[gm280]

Most OB engines has a reverse lockout. But they are usually a manually set option as well. And looking at the 1982 7.5HP Mercury breakdown, it has such a reverse lock option. So maybe it needs cleaned and adjusted. You usually don't lock it when in forward because then the engine wouldn't kick up if you hit a log or something while going forward. But when you go to reverse, it is supposed to be locked to keep the engine from kicking up. Either clean and adjust your lock out setup, or gently use reverse...


Part number 25 is such a lock out part... JMHO!

 

[MTboatguy]

Yup, unfortunately my older 9.8 does not have one and to put one together for it would cost to much, so I just gently back up when I need to, most of the time I end up using my electric trolling motor to get away from the dock.

 

[sdav834]

Appreciate all the info. Never thought about the OB hitting a log or rock and the purpose of that latch.. OK will reverse gently if have to. Thanks a bunch.