I have a 1992 200 merc offshore that jumps an bucks when put in reverse, forward is fine. any ideas on what the problem is and should I try to fix it myself?
HI, My first guess might be a cable agjustment. It's possible the adjustment is favoring forward and not getting good or complete engagement in reverse.
a proper cable adjustment may fix the problem , but how and when did the problem start? drain gear lube and inspect for metal chips and chunks. metalic sheen is normal for oil with lots of time on it but particals that you caan feel between your fingers is bad news. if you have chunks a cable adjustment is not going to correct the problem, and, adjusting to get reverse may cause lack of correct shift into fwd. if the cable is not broken and is properly connected something caused the problem --- normally this is from slow shifting or a poor adjustment from the beginning. a rounded shift cltch will not heel its-self.
thanks for the info,I tried cable adj. I messed up forward with only a half turn on the adj. the problem started all at once, no warning. Just what is a shift clutch? should I try to tackle it myself?
If the motor acts like it wants to raise up when you put it in reverse you have a problem with your trim/tilt system. My manual only goes to 1991 but says the problem might be in the electrical or hydraulic system. I know thats not much help but check your manual if you have one. It might be as simple as checking your fluid level. Don't open any fill screws with the motor raised up unsupported. Releasing the pressure might cause the motor to drop.
