Shifting Gears on 1969 20hp Johnson Loose a gear.

John Drew98

Seaman
Joined
Feb 13, 2020
Messages
72
I replaced the water pump and now it shifts into all gears before I start. Then I only have Neutral and forward or Netural and reverse. I can turn the prop, when in gear, and then it will shift.all three.
 

racerone

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 28, 2013
Messages
38,438
Did you line up the notches in the shift rods with the holes in the brass connector BEFORE you put the bolts in , yes , no or not sure ?
 

jimmbo

Supreme Mariner
Joined
May 24, 2004
Messages
13,642
Shifting these engines without the engine running, or not rotating the Propshaft by hand, often results in being unable to shift into gear, as the Slots/Channels in the gears are not lined up with the Cogs/Teeth of the Clutch Dog Forcing the Shift Lever can result in Damage to the Linkage
 

John Drew98

Seaman
Joined
Feb 13, 2020
Messages
72
Not sure. Most likely I did.. I just went out and with the motor cold, it easily changes gears. perhaps forward is a little more pressure because the selection knotch is a little longer than netural and reverse. I manually turned the flywheel and everythings stayed operational. Will try ater I start tomorrow. Thanks fellows for helping me get this 50 year old
bad boy running.
 

oldboat1

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Apr 3, 2002
Messages
9,612
Take the l.u. off and check the shift rod connector before starting the motor. See #2.
 

John Drew98

Seaman
Joined
Feb 13, 2020
Messages
72
It will shift easily forward, netural and reverse once I release it. When I turn the prop in forward gear until i feel slighest resistance,it locks it in forward. I can turn the prop until I head a loud click then all gears work until I turn the prop again. I notice that the netural position is a little more forward than a verticle position. Perhaps normal. Youtube video....You will hear the click when I turn the prop about 1/4 inch and releases it. Forward shows the most paint wore.3/4" of lever. Netural is about 1/8 inch from left side on the lever. Reverse is about 3/8 from the left side of vertical lever. . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zY7Rvxa82w
 
Last edited:

racerone

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 28, 2013
Messages
38,438
That vertical lever pictured full time in your video is the interlock.----It prevents full throttle in neutral.----It prevents you from shifting into neutral at full throttle.----Read the book on how the shift system works.---Read on where to adjust the shift linkages.-.----Prop must be turned or motor must be running when you shift.-------Mistakes here will cost you big money !!
 
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