Advice!trouble shifting?

[Sanatosis]

Was wondering if anyone knew if it was normal for it to be difficult to shift from neutral to reverse or forawrd while an outboard engine is not running. The most obvious solution is does it shift while the engine is running. (well it did two years ago before i developed a wiring problem) But I'm not entirely sure right now. I'm assuming that it must be normal and not a sign of a larger problem, similar to trying to shift into gear in a car without a key in the ignition? Its a 1975 Johnson Stinger fairly large outboard!
Any comments would be great

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: Advice!trouble shifting?

The engine is shifted by a sliding clutch dog on a splined shaft. To shift the gearcase with the engine not running, you need someone to turn the propellor while you put pressure on the shift lever. (Take the key out of the ignition when doing this). The lug's on the shift dog must align with the lug's on the forward, or reverse gear to go into full engagement. Your gearcase in that year has mechanical shifting, with hydraulic assist.

 

[Walker]

Re: Advice!trouble shifting?

Sometimes it is. It depends on if the clutch dogs are lined up with the respective slots in the forward or reverse gear. Try this. Have someone turn the prop while you try to shift it.

 

[Sanatosis]

Re: Advice!trouble shifting?

Awesome, thats good news for me boys
Thanks Johnson and walker