shifting trouble 1972 85hp Johnson

[firbrd67]

I've recently picked up a Model number 85ESL72R Johnson that won't shift out of forward. I've drained the synthetic oil out of the bottom end replaced with the premium oil for the electric shift motors. I got my hands on a service manual for a 1970 115hp Johnson and i'm guessing from reading on the forum the two engines shift the same. I've done the electrical checks as outlined in the trouble shooting section of the manual for the shifting troubles and all seems well. I'm wondering what else could be preventing it from shifting.

 

[F_R]

Re: shifting trouble 1972 85hp Johnson

First thing first: You ARE checking it for shifting with the motor running aren't you? It will not shift when not running and will always be in forward gear when not running.

I assume the electrical checks included a resistance check of the wires going down to the lower unit and voltage check on the wires from the remote control? If this all checks out, then the trouble is in the lower unit. Has anybody had the solenoids out? They might have missed the levers in the oil pump when they put them back in. Or they could have been messing with the plunger adjustments.

If none of the above then, sorry to say, the gearcase has to come apart. Something wrong with the oil pump assembly or valving.

 

[firbrd67]

Re: shifting trouble 1972 85hp Johnson

Thanks for the reply. How far will i get with the manual for the 1970 115hp motor using it on this 72' 85hp alot the same other than the obvious

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: shifting trouble 1972 85hp Johnson

they are pretty much the same.