Re: 197X Merc 402
Hi Chris,<br /> Sounds like set-up issues in both cases. I'm guessing you bought the motor seperate from the boat and rigged it yourself?<br /> <br /> The reverse issue sounds like an adjustment of the cables fix. The grinding noise is the clutch ALMOST engaging the gears. Move the barrel nut on the cable to the closer to the cable sheathing/away from the cable end, as you want the cable to push back a little more. Do it incrementally, taking care not to lose neutral or forward in the process.<br /><br /> If you're getting a consistent 25 mph, then it's likely you're motor is at least running on both cylinders and getting good fuel. This could also be a cable issue - are you getting full travel on the throttle cable? Is the throttle cable giving you full advance? Remove the cowling and with the motor running, have someone push the throttle tower arm to a faster position and see if you note any throttle response above where you normally are. Take care not to get any fingers caught in the flywheel, etc. Adjust the throttle cable barrel nut accordingly...<br /><br /> Also, are you running the right prop for your rig? At 300 lbs., you should be using a relatively tall prop, something in the 13-15-inch pitch range I would guess. Borrow or buy a tachometer and see where you're topping out - preferably at around 5000-5500 revs. Get a prop that puts you in that range AFTER you're sure the throttle cable is giving you full throttle...<br /><br />- Scott