Can't shift to nuetral

[msgtcujoman]

I have a 1987 18' bayliner (3.0 OMC Cobra) I use to have to force it into nuetral, now it just won't go. And now it won't start, i think that's because it's to much strain in the starting system. Any clues?

 

[Don S]

Re: Can't shift to nuetral

Either your shift cable is stiff, or your shift interrupt system is inoperative. Or your idle is too high, or a combination of the three.<br />Can you shift it when the engine is not running?<br />The ESA (Electronic Shift Assist) is supposed to momentarily cause the engine to missfire to allow the dog clutch to release. <br /><br /> OMC Cobra Info

 

[msgtcujoman]

Re: Can't shift to nuetral

Thanks for the quick response! The shift cable is new. I can't get it in nuetral with engine off or running, even with a great deal of force.

 

[rabidfish]

Re: Can't shift to nuetral

You need someone the check your boat...<br /><br />You probably caused a small problem to get worse by continuing to run it.

 

[Don S]

Re: Can't shift to nuetral

I can't get it in nuetral with engine off or running, even with a great deal of force.

Then something is together wrong. Stop forcing it, or you will have even more problems. <br />Take the drive back off, and inspect everything.<br />Check the link I gave you earlier, and make sure everything is right.<br />Have you been using a service manual?

 

[KRS]

Re: Can't shift to nuetral

My engine cover was sagging (plywood) and it was preventing the shift cable stud from moving, almost hit a dock.... scared the poo out of me. So check your engine cover for scratches, gouges... and remove it and try to shift.<br /><br />Hope this helps.