'99 115 Remove Carb Side Cover to Reconnect Shift Shaft?

[Captain Jeff]

'99 V4 115
I know this is a nearly impossible task because I have done it before and heard of everyone else's frustrations here as well. Last time i did this though it didn't seem quite as difficult as this time around. My question is:

Is it normal to have to remove the (lower left) carburetor side cover plate to allow more clearance for the shift control arm so I can line it up with the top of the shift shaft? I am reasonably sure I have the shift shaft height adjusted properly but just can't get that last tiny bit of play to line everything up. I can't remember if I had to remove that carb cover last time and I'm just wondering if anyone else has had this issue.

Thanks

 

[Captain Jeff]

Re: '99 115 Remove Carb Side Cover to Reconnect Shift Shaft?

More info: This is a PX model, 25" shaft I believe. The center of the hole in the top of the shift shaft was 26 3/16" as measured from the mating deck surface of the lower unit while in neutral. The offset is pointing forward. This should be in the range my manual gives of 26 3/32" to 26 5/32".

 

[Dhadley]

Re: '99 115 Remove Carb Side Cover to Reconnect Shift Shaft?

If I remember correctly (probably not) it helps to be in forward. I believe the shaft will get the extra clearance to slide then. (I think)

 

[Dhadley]

Re: '99 115 Remove Carb Side Cover to Reconnect Shift Shaft?

Also recheck your measurement.........at 26 3/16 it needs to go in one, maybe two, turns. 26 1/8" is dead center.