Engine won't shift out of forward gear.

[jackrg]

I have a 1969 85 hp evinrude on a 16 foot runabout.While boating the other day I noticed that the boat would not shift out of the forward gear even though the shift lever at the stearing wheel was in neutral. Do you have any suggestions on what needs to be looked at for repair ?<br /><br />Thanks.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Engine won't shift out of forward gear.

That motor has the hydro-electric shift. Not electric. It is pre loaded to forward and goes to neutral and reverse on hudraulic oil pressure.<br /><br />Since it has been working, look at the lower unit oil first. If it has water in it the shift may not work properly and may do as you describe.<br /><br />If the lower unit oil was just changed it may have the wrong fluid now.<br /><br />There are other things to look at but lets start there to make sure we have a good starting point.

 

[jackrg]

Re: Engine won't shift out of forward gear.

Dhadley, Thanks for your quick reply. Can you recommend the proper l/u oil/fluid for it?

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Engine won't shift out of forward gear.

Use the Evin/John "Premium Blend" gearcase lube.

 

[Droll]

Re: Engine won't shift out of forward gear.

OMC "type c" or "OMC premium blend" only<br />For Johnson/Evinrude electric/hydro-electric shift .<br /><br />1 min to late

 

[jackrg]

Re: Engine won't shift out of forward gear.

Thanks , One more question, I've changed the L/U<br />lube in an Alpa 1 but not in a engine like this . Is it a similar process ?

 

[jackrg]

Re: Engine won't shift out of forward gear.

Thats supposed to read (Alpha 1) woops!

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Engine won't shift out of forward gear.

The bottom screw is the drain and fill. Top screw is the vent. Fill from bottom until it comes out the top.

 

[phatmanmike]

Re: Engine won't shift out of forward gear.

could also be a short in the wiring someplace. with no voltage, unit will shift itself into forward and stay there.<br /><br />check your connectors at the main engine harness.<br />check the selenoids. should have 5-7 ohms resistance in each one with a multi meter<br /><br />and get a manual