Shifting Boat out of the Water?

[13crazyhorse]

From what I've read so far it seems that it won't harm my boat motor or outdrive to shift it into forward and reverse while it is idleing on a hose. I just had to rewire my shift assist switch because I installed a new motor and new ignition system. I would like to test it before I put it back in the water but will it operate properly without the water pressure on the prop? Thanks for any input on this. 86 5.7 Mercruiser Alpha one.

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Shifting Boat out of the Water?

Just be aware of the dangers to children and pets, etc. of a spinning prop on land.

 

[Don S]

Re: Shifting Boat out of the Water?

The shift interrupt system should not activate at all out of the water, but you can manually active the switch to see if the switch kills the engine, and you should shift out of the water to make sure it goes into both forward and reverse without stalling the engine.

 

[13crazyhorse]

Re: Shifting Boat out of the Water?

Ok thanks for the input. I know it goes in gear I'm trying to find out if it goes out of gear it's a little inconvenient at the marina to find out it doesn't come out of gear without shutting the motor off, can be a little stressfull!

 

[Don S]

Re: Shifting Boat out of the Water?

Head to the closest launch ramp at a time when no one is there. Back into the water, start it up, test it (still on the trailer) adjust if needed, shut it off and go home. You are ready for the big day.