Shift problem

[olduglypontoon]

My '68 Evinrude 40 HP doesn't always want to shift into either forward or reverse. After moving the shift lever I have to reach back on the side of the motor and manually shift the linkage just a little bit more. Sometimes it will not shift into forward and sometimes reverse. The adjustment wheel is tight in the bracket, that does not move.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Shift problem

shift rod adjustment, cable adjustment, or cable replacement.

 

[olduglypontoon]

Re: Shift problem

The cable is only 1 year old, so I need to look at shift rod adjustment or cable adjustment. How do I do these?

 

[F_R]

Re: Shift problem

Take the access plates off the side of the midsection. Inside, you will see the shift rod connector. Use a screwdriver of something to see if you can move it up and down without moving the shift lever. It should not. If it does, look at all the external links and gizmos associated with the shift lever for looseness or lost motion. If it is not external, it must be internal. Off with the powerhead if it is.