Does the shift interrupter switch work when out of water.

[farmer9009]

1989 Mercruiser 4.3L OC535857 serial number.
I just installed a new transom and put everything back together. I was running the motor on the hose with muffs and when going in and out of gear the shift interrupter switch stalled the motor a couple of times then when the motor didn't stall it still stumbled a good bit.
I was thinking that the shift interrupter switch should not activate when the drive is out of the water and that I need a new shift cable. Just looking for confirmation. I don't know the age of the cable but I can tell it has been replaced previously but it has been awhile since the boot looks suspect.
I am planning on changing the cable but was curious about the function of the shift interrupter switch while out of the water.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Does the shift interrupter switch work when out of water.

I was thinking that the shift interrupter switch should not activate when the drive is out of the water and that I need a new shift cable. Just looking for confirmation.

Ayuh,... I believe yer absolutely Right....

Resistance from the water on the prop is what makes it work...

 

[fishrdan]

Re: Does the shift interrupter switch work when out of water.

Do yourself a favor and buy the OEM Mercruiser/Quicksilver shift cable, it's worth the extra money.