1989 60hp, adjusting shift rod hight

[WernerF]

3-cylinder J60TLCEA. Last year I might have turned the shift rod during water pump replacement. Shifting still works, but the forward/reverse gear engagement is not symmetrical and is probably out of the cable's adjusting range.
Now I want to readjust the shift rod hight. Is it possible to turn the shift rod without removing the lower unit?

 

[retiredfornow]

Re: 1989 60hp, adjusting shift rod hight

I believe you can turn it from the top, if you can get to it. Your VRO pump will be in the way. There's guidelines in the manual to adjust the shift cable, maybe that's all it needs. Good luck, and get out your looong needle nose pliers.

 

[WernerF]

Re: 1989 60hp, adjusting shift rod hight

Thanks for your reply. You encourage me to try it. The manual says the lever the shift cable is attached to should be vertical in neutral. So it is. I need to relocate the shift engagement about 1/5 of the whole travel, that's one turn of the shift rod, I guess.

 

[mark1961]

Re: 1989 60hp, adjusting shift rod hight

If the top of the shift rod fits inside a clevis it will be just about impossible i think.....easier to wait til next time you service the pump and have to remove the lower.....if not, you MIGHT be ok.

 

[WernerF]

Re: 1989 60hp, adjusting shift rod hight

Yes, you're right, Mark. I tried, but the shift rod cannot be turned from the top. Too many parts in the way. Fortunately the cable's adjustment range was large enough to get it done.