1986 Mercruiser Shifting Grinding/Stalling Problem

[scotty boy]

I’m having an intermittent shifting problem. I have a 1986 Ebko, 350 engine with a Mercruiser Stern Drive. I am pretty sure it is an Alpha unit. The stern drive has a decal that says 233 on each side of the drive. Anyway, here is the problem. When I first start up the boat and try to shift into reverse, it either grinds terribly, or it stalls. When I shift it into forward, it is smooth as silk weather hot or cold. I’ve never had any problems with forward. After I run the boat really hard (like pulling skiers), reverse seems to work just fine. But if I shut down the engine or stay out of gear for more than 3 to 5 minutes, the whole reverse grinding/stalling scenario may or may not start over again. From everything I’ve read on boat forums, it sounds like it’s probably the shifting cable. I have no clue if it has ever been changed or adjusted. I’ve had the boat 3 years and I’ve never had it adjusted. Is this something that should be done annually? Any insights would be greatly appreciated. <br /><br />Scotty Boy

 

[Trent]

Re: 1986 Mercruiser Shifting Grinding/Stalling Problem

No you dont need to adjust every year. Sounds like you need to replace your lower shift cable. Very common Mercrusier problem.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: 1986 Mercruiser Shifting Grinding/Stalling Problem

Shift cable adjustment sounds correct or a new one depending on the age of it .Possibly low on drive fluid as well.When it is being used it becomes aerated and acts like it is full and when it sits the aeration bubbles vanish and you have less fluid.Open the top vent and try to add fluid .If some fluid comes out or it will only take a few drops,then you are ok.If it continues to take fluid then drain it to see how much you lost or just fill it through the bottom fill until it comes out the vent. Charlie

 

[flashback]

Re: 1986 Mercruiser Shifting Grinding/Stalling Problem

shift cable is not good