Outboard gear shift problem

[Mercedes]

Bought 5hp Wards model VWB19072 serial 46x14126 at auction for 5 bucks. Looks as new and will run as I inadvertently started for a second. Problem is forward and reverse too difficult to shift. Will shift and engage but too hard to work while underway. Engine was in storage possibly for many years. Flushed bottom gear out and some help,still not enough.<br /><br />I know it is a Chysler, don't know the year,and/or who manufactured? Any simple solution to gear shift problem appreciated. Like the old engines and have some limited skills,but helpful advice always welcome.

 

[12Footer]

Re: Outboard gear shift problem

It may be siezing up at the top shift shaft seal (dry fronm sitting). You might have to remove the lower unit, which would be adviseable anyhoo, on an engine that has been stored for years---to replace the impeller.<br />Impellers form a shape and harden over time. Then, when you start them up, they pump fine until the fly appart.<br />It wouldn't hurt to replace the shiftshaft,prop,driveshaft and impeller seals whilst in there. The kit costs about 20buks<br /><br />Of course, turning the engine on it's head overnight might lube it enough to free it up some. But trust me, it wont pump water,and keep a clean lower unit for long.

 

[12Footer]

Re: Outboard gear shift problem

BTW, that's a great price for an allready operating engine at auction!!! Good job,Benz

 

[Mercedes]

Re: Outboard gear shift problem

Thanks for the information,never thought of tipping upside down to hopfully losen shift. Since serial # begins with 46 does that mean engine is a year 64??? Anyway to find out who made the engine for Chrsyler? Never had much success removing lower units as bolt too often break off. This engine appears to have bolts screwed in.

 

[alcan]

Re: Outboard gear shift problem

Hello Benz<br /> As you already know your 5hp SeaKing was made by Chrysler for Montgomery Ward. You are also correct in the year being a 1964. How ever I have not found that reversing of the ser# thing to be accutate. I am not an expert on this so maybe someone will shed some light on this. I get alot of my info from factory,dealer literature. As I have never worked on this model, we're going by the books on this one. As 12Footer suggests you realy need to service the water pump. I use a propane torch to warm up the area around the bolts/screws. This helps a lot, but is not a 100% cure. As far as the sticky shifting is concerned I think you will find the problem to be where the shift handle shaft enters the exhaust housing. This is a comman problem with all brands. Actually the owners. I suggest removing the powerhead and dissembling the shift lever shaft. Most of the time if you just heat it and lube, it will stick again shortly. As my book lists this model as one year only, go easy as some parts may be hard to find.stated earlier I'm not an expert so I have no idea as to the rarity of this model. I do have a parts manual that covers this motor. And could send some scans if you need them. I also agree, Great price! should be a good motor.