Force motor 85 hp lockdown

[myboatfins]

I asked a question a week ago about have trouble with motor coming up out of water in reverse. My 1988 model 85sx8a Serial 4066 85 hp force does not have power it is manual. I looked over the weekend and it looks like the metal pin and clip are missing. A boat down from mine with a similar motor has a rod that goes across. Any idea what this piece is called and how I go about getting one. Also on the idle problem (it dies when trying to) someone said to adjust the idle. Can I do this I am a woman and blond??? But I have learned how to do alot any simple instructions or do I need a higher power.

 

[jfc092]

Re: Force motor 85 hp lockdown

OK Myboatfins; lets see if I can help. I have the same engine as you and had some of the same problems as you when I got it. <br />The rod you are talking about adjusts the trim angle of the engine. There are about 5 or so adjustment holes that are available for adjustment. You really should not be running the boat without that rod in place. A mercury dealer will charge you about 30 dollars for the part. I made my own using a half inch trailer rollershaft, capnut on one end, then drilled the other end and springclipped it over a washer. Cost me about 3 bucks.<br />Your problem with the engine coming out of the water in reverse is a different problem. From inside the boat look at the middle front of the engine just above where the engine sits on the boat. You'll see a small tab that's only about an inch or so big. This tab switches left to right 180 degrees and locks the engine so it will not lift out of the water in reverse. When your done with the boat for the day, you unlock that tab to tilt the engine up for trailering. <br />OK, last problem. Your idle adjustment is on the right side of the engine. Its a machined screw with a locknut. Follow your linkage and you should find it. It may solve your shutting down problem. I would recommend you get the manuel for the 85 HP Force engine. I did and it's worth it. Good luck!!