Shift cable and ESA module?

[SteveDavis]

I am looking for instruction on replacing my lower shift cable. I have a 4.3L GM powered OMC cobra outdrive. I am hearing that this is why my engine is quiting when I give it gas while in forward. I can go forward at the lowest possible speed, but any thing over that it sputters, shakes, and sounds like it is gasping for air and then dies. I can drive it in reverse at any throtle and then be able to drive forward.

Anyhow, I purchased SELOC repair manual for OMC strern drives 1986-98 and can not find where or how to replace my lower **** cable. I was also given the advice that it could be my ESA module. Can anyone explain this to me? What is it and what does it do? I was told it replaces the need for the overstroke switch. What is that?

I am really intrested in knowing what is going on with my boat, so I can get fishing, and hopefully help others!

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Shift cable and ESA module?

You need to purchase an OEM service manual. Also go the the Hastings site and read up on the subject there:

http://www.hastings.org/~stuart/cobra/

 

[Coors]

Re: Shift cable and ESA module?

and buy the new style ESA, you don't need the overstroke switch, and can swap it in when the other switch craps out, due to not keeping it clean.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Shift cable and ESA module?

If you want to check that the miss is caused by the ESA module disconnect the module when you are out in the middle of the lake. The reason I say do it there is so that when you can't get it out of gear, you can turn off the motor and reconnect it.

 

[Coors]

Re: Shift cable and ESA module?

Good one; that will help a lot of people that don't won't to listen to the answer.

 

[SteveDavis]

Re: Shift cable and ESA module?

Well I don't know if Coors is being sarcastic or not, but that attachment did help me a ton! I can see how people would not believe that the problem I am facing and many others are, have, or will be is due to a lower shift cable or a ESA module. After reading the Hastings attachment I understand or are a lot closer to understanding what is going on. I appreciate the help that everyone has been giving.

Does anyone know how to get a OEM owners manual?

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Shift cable and ESA module?

Steve,

I bought my OEM OMC manual from a seller I found on EBAY. Sorry. I don't remember who it was. I just did a search for OMC manuals.

I paid about $100 for it. They're not cheap. but you ABSOLUTELY MUST have the OEM manual. Seloc or Clymer just doesn't cut it!

The Cobra is a real pain in the *****. But if you get it "tuned" up right it'll be fine.

This doesn't help you but My "fix" was to remove it and replace it with a Mercruiser BBC+ Bravo. I had a 7.5L King Cobra in the Liberator with NO parts availability for some parts. The "other" models have parts availability.






Good luck!



Rick

 

[Coors]

Re: Shift cable and ESA module?

Ebay- Searayman13

 

[lgodbold]

Re: Shift cable and ESA module?

eBay is a good source. I got an OEM manual for my '88 Cobra for $50.00. One thing to watch; these mauals are model specific. There's a page in the manual which lists which models are covered; you can't go by the year alone. Most posts on eBay will show this page, or you can ask. If you can't find the specfic manual you need on eBay, any Johnson/Evinrude dealer can order one from BRP for you, but they're pretty pricey...>$100.00 in most cases. Good luck.

 

[SteveDavis]

Re: Shift cable and ESA module?

Great thanks again!