Force 125 1988 not going into gear

[JPMik]

When I put the shift lever into foward it starts to click, reverse seems to be ok. If i push the throttle really hard into foward I can get it to engage. Is there a simple adjustment I can make to solve this? I appreciate any input. I am trying to sell the boat and want to make sure everything is working the way it should. Thanks so much for any input.
John

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Force 125 1988 not going into gear

The easiest adjustment is where the upper and lower shift rods join. This is in front of the leg below the transom clamps and motor mount. You will see a cylinder and a cotter pin. Remove the pin and rotate the lower rod counterclocwise a half turn at a time. Return the pin and test gear engagement. Do this until forward and reverse engage equally firmly and neutral makes no noise. I would expect only 2 turns or less would be needed.

 

[Jiggz]

Re: Force 125 1988 not going into gear

Franks recommendation will definitely work as long as you know it has never been done before. Because if it has been done there is possibility you can totally unscrew the lower shift rod and will require dropping the LU to screw it back in. So before you unscrew it turn it clockwise and make sure it is fully screwed in first. The other option for adjustment is the upper shift lever located under the carbs but involves two nuts and a really tight space.

 

[JPMik]

Re: Force 125 1988 not going into gear

Just wanted to say thanks for the info. One turn fixed the problem.
John