grinding gears?

[b.gagnon]

1983 merc 40hp…. Grinds when shifted slowly into rev, but seems ok when I do it fast. Is there a way to check the adjustment of the shift linkage to see if it is out? I have the Clymer for the motor but it is the most useless repair manual ever!

 

[whosmatt]

Re: grinding gears?

shifting an outboard slowly only causes undue wear to the clutch dog in the lower unit, which eventually will cause the motor to pop out of gear while underway. shift with authority, you should not hear any grinding, only a bit of a 'thunk' as the gears engage

 

[ob]

Re: grinding gears?

Listen to Whosmatt,A new in perfect condition outboard will gear grind if shifted slowly.Always shift briskly into forward or reverse being careful not to overshoot into too high of throttle.Practice makes perfect.