'72 Chrysler 20HP Model 202HD Shift Linkage

[i386]

I recently serviced the water pump on my outboard. It's the first time I've done it on this one. For those that have worked on a few Chryslers, this is one that has the threaded coupler w/jam nut that connects the 2 halves of the shift rod. You have to take the 2 cover half's off the exhaust leg to get to it.

Anyway, I was thinking the shift lever stood straight up when in neutral, but it leans about 45 degrees to the left. Also, the lock mechanism that limits the timing advance/throttle when in neutral isn't working. Other than that it seems to be working. What did I miss?

 

[eurolarva]

Re: '72 Chrysler 20HP Model 202HD Shift Linkage

One side of that coupler has reverse threads. Been a long time since I last did one but I think I screwed it on the top linkage as far as it would go then started turning it to lock onto the linkage on the gear housing. There is a small 1/4 inch nut that acts as a lock nut. I typically use that as my marker when I take it apart because that is where approx you want it when you put it back together.

Put shifter in neutral then adjust the coupler till you get the prop to spin both directions without clicking. Then have someone slowly shift it forward and reverse so you can see if you have the entire shifting capability and it is pretty much centered within the shifers range.

 

[i386]

Re: '72 Chrysler 20HP Model 202HD Shift Linkage

That did it. I just needed to make the shift rod "longer". It takes very little adjustment of the coupler to make the shift lever move a lot. Putting it in neutral and adjusting until the lever is vertical is a good indicator that it's close. Fine tune from there. Thanks! Now hopefully I can take her out and see if it pumps water at planing speed (looks good in the trash can). That's what started this mess.