Sterndrive Shift Cable Installation

[rlambert]

I noticed the bell housing has threads all the way through for the shift cable. Does it matter whether I use a fore or aft threaded shift cable? Are they interchangable?

 

[rlambert]

Re: Sterndrive Shift Cable Installation

It's an Alpha One. I'm thinking if the shift cables are the same length then it shouldn't matter right?

 

[paultjohnson]

Re: Sterndrive Shift Cable Installation

I just did mine , they were two diff cables. Yours prob installs from the AFT end How is the one that on there installed ? Its a touchy part. get what its called for IMHO

 

[rlambert]

Re: Sterndrive Shift Cable Installation

Yeah, the one on there was an aft (easier I think) but I accidentally ordered the forward. Not thrilled about it but didn't really want to go through the trouble of returning it for the other. Weather is nice here in FL and tryin to get on the water. I just replaced the bell housing as well though and it looks like it threads all the way through. Thought I might try it but not sure if it's worth it. Frustrating!

 

[paultjohnson]

Re: Sterndrive Shift Cable Installation

Ah I see... I am not sure if the hole in bell housing is tapered or not... I D K Anybody else, been there, done that ??? good luck !

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Sterndrive Shift Cable Installation

I accidentally ordered the forward.

I didn't think they still had any of the forward style cables available. That's the old style. You must have found someone with a stock of the old cables. You're the first I've seen asking about going from the new style to the old. I would GUESS you could do that. I don't see why not. You do need the appropriate tap - it is not a tapered pipe fit, but rather a straight pipe fit. Don't remember the actual size tap - you can do a search.

 

[Don S]

Re: Sterndrive Shift Cable Installation

Aftermarket does sell the old style cables.

To the original poster, get a new shift cable from Mercruiser, not aftermarket. They are a MUCH better cable. Teflon coated inner cable that will out last any aftermarket cable. Usually only about 20 bucks more than the aftermarket cables.

 

[paultjohnson]

Re: Sterndrive Shift Cable Installation

It just crossed my mind [I know, scary] The new cables have been upgraded . On my 86, The old cable- that installed from the aft. Has been upgraded with a larger diameter cable, and no longer has the crimp on support tube on the engine[shift plate actually] end, and you dont have to cut the new style to fit. If the one u recieved has the old crimp on support tube, for sure bite the bullet and get the correct one. That was part num 865,436 A03 And thats a genuine MERCRUISER part. That was the whole kit, cable only had part num but A02 at the end. The whole new cable kit with bellows etc was only $70.00. IDK I think I would get the correct one anyhow. But its your checkbook!!!

 

[rlambert]

Re: Sterndrive Shift Cable Installation

Ha! After causing all this commotion the Sierra forward style cable is not even close to being long enough. What I did for the mean time is the clean the old one out real well. Must of had dirt and grease up in there. It is no longer tripping the cut-out switch at least for now so I re-installed it and it ran real good. Had her out on Sunday. I will order the orignial replacement part aft sytle as soon as I start having those cut-out issues again. Thanks everyone for the comments. That is good info to know.

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Sterndrive Shift Cable Installation

I will order the orignial replacement part aft sytle as soon as I start having those cut-out issues again.

Two thoughts:

1. I would suggest ordering it now so it will be on hand when you do have those cut out issues again. (Which I suspect will be sooner than later).

2. Order the appropriate tap as well. You will have trouble finding it at your local hardware store. It is 1/4X18 NPSF