shifter wont let me go in reverse.. No grinding

[xxturbowesxx]

i was out on the water all day memorial day.. pulling skiers wakeboarding etc.. about 3pm i noticed out of the blue the shifter wouldnt let me shift into reverse it just locks me from moving the shifter..it worked fine all day long and it doesnt grind or anything the shifter just wont move... what do you think caused this and any ideas where i should look first to fix it.?

 

[Roughneck1860]

Re: shifter wont let me go in reverse.. No grinding

Sounds like its gone out of adjustment. Check either where the cable connects to the control box or the motor. Then check the actual linkage under the cowling and last check where the shift shaft joins just above the lower unit. Feel the locking nuts to see if loose or look for discolouration like its moved. I've seen problems with all of the mentioned cause what you discribe.

Tim

 

[xxturbowesxx]

Re: shifter wont let me go in reverse.. No grinding

where is the control box located before i mess with it? 89 mariner 150 2 stroke

 

[Roughneck1860]

Re: shifter wont let me go in reverse.. No grinding

The control box is the box that the control lever for throttle and F-N-R. If you dont have a box its the area behind your dash the controls are on or behind the panel on the side where the control lever is. Basicly where the control cable connect to the control lever(s).

Tim