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?

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Can't shift to nuetral

Welcome!!<br /><br />I'm sure the folks in the IO department can steer you in the right direction. Maybe JB will move this for us.<br /><br />Now, are you trying to shift it without the motor running? If so someone has to spin the prop while you try to shift it. Or is it hard to shift with the motor running?<br /><br />When you say the motor wont start do you mean it spins over but wont start or does it just not turn over at all?

 

[msgtcujoman]

Re: Can't shift to nuetral

Sorry for the confusion. Shifting isn't a problem, just pulling the the control outward to nuetral with or wothout engine running. The cable is new and not binding. The prop does spin when trying to start. So, it does spin over like it wants to start.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Can't shift to nuetral

OK, I'm confused. You say that its hard to shift into neutral but shifting isnt a problem. When you say "pulling the control outward" do you mean its already in neutral and its hard to pull the control handle out so you can rev it up in neutral?<br /><br />You mentioned the control cable is new. The cable in the boat or the cable on the outdrive?