84 OMC won't get in gear

[birdie1evenscore]

I own a 84 OMC 3.8 that appears to have stern drive problem getting into gear. Cruising along and acted like it went into neutral. Ball gears turn but I hear a knocking in the stern drive. Removed shift cable and manually shifted the converter box but still would not engage. No metal shavings in the oil. Not sure if it is a upper or lower gear case problem. Have a manual but need help in identifing the problem.

 

[moderator1]

Re: 84 OMC won't get in gear

Moving to I/O Questions and Troubles.

 

[birdie1evenscore]

Re: 84 OMC won't get in gear

Talking to a mechanic he suggested it could be the drive shaft and water pump drive shaft. I believe this requires sterndrive removal and detailed shimming with special tools. Anyone tackle this job?

 

[kponhlo]

Re: 84 OMC won't get in gear

Well, as a recent 1st time rebuilder I can say that its not an outrageously difficult job, as long as you have fair mechanical aptitude, a reasonably good standard tool selection, a manual (or two in my case) patience and you don't mind buying some special tools. Tools I found req'd are the shimming gauges and the Truarc snapring pliers. Try to find used tools - I got a good deal on some extras at the local service shop.<br /><br />IMO, I'd get a second opinion via the folks on this board before you tear it down...<br /><br />HTH,<br />-Keith

 

[ziglai]

Re: 84 OMC won't get in gear

i had the same problem. i took the lower unit off and inside was a rubber/plastic drive gear. mine was totally stripped. its made this way so it wont bust up your engine if the impellor comes to a drastic stop at high speeds. i changed it (it took about an hour) and now its fine. the only special tool i needed was a clutch allignment tool. good luck