Shift rod dropping too far

zukimud1

Cadet
Joined
Aug 20, 2003
Messages
24
Here's the problem. When I shift into reverse it tries to go into gear and then just lets loose like gears are in nuetral. I checked my shift rod / shift mechanism mating under the drive and when I am going into reverse, the shift rod drops out of the upper shift mechanism. I took a zip tie and secured them together and it works fine. I know this mickey mouse fix won't last, so can anyone tell me what I need to do to fix this? Thanks in advance for the help. Great board!<br /><br />Oh, by the way, this is a 1974 Mercruiser.
 

rodbolt

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 1, 2003
Messages
20,066
Re: Shift rod dropping too far

hello<br /> if the inermediate or upper shift shaft is falling away from the shafft on the gimbal housing it means that some one was monkying about and left the washer off the lower unit shift shaft. the washer protects the seal as well as supports the upper shift shaft.<br /> good luck and keep posting
 

arboatdr

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Feb 22, 2004
Messages
144
Re: Shift rod dropping too far

There is supposed to be a stainless steel washer around the shift shaft in the lower unit. Did someone service this unit lately? Might have left it out. The washer holds the upper shifter up just far enough to keep it engaged.
 

arboatdr

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Feb 22, 2004
Messages
144
Re: Shift rod dropping too far

rodbolt types much faster than me.! lol
 

zukimud1

Cadet
Joined
Aug 20, 2003
Messages
24
Re: Shift rod dropping too far

Thanks, I'll check that out and post my findings in a few days.
 

rodbolt

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 1, 2003
Messages
20,066
Re: Shift rod dropping too far

hello<br /> arboatdr<br /> comes from to much time spent playing with the puter and not fixing boats :)P:) but when its cold and ather itis is bothering me there is not much else to do.<br /> good luck and keep posting
 
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