Mercruiser 3.0 Alpha 1 Shift Problem

[tjd2004]

Hello I am looking for a little help with my 1996 Bayliner which has a mercruiser 3.0 4 cly with a Alpha one drive. The drive unit seems to be locked in forward gear. I recently replaced the remote control unit which was a Quicksilver 3000 clasic. I replaced it because the release button would not pop back out. Assume for a minute that I have it installed correctly (which I believe I do) Now when I try to shift it is very stiff and the shift cable that is connected to the drive will only move about a 1/4 inch. Even if I disconect the remote control unit, and pull the drive shift cable out of the bracket I can only move the shift cable about 1/4 inch and the drive unit appears to be locked in gear. How do I access the point where the cable connects to the drive unit?, and or I would appreciate some suggestions on how to get it unlocked from gear. Thanks

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Alpha 1 Shift Problem

hello<br /> did it work before you fixed the control box ?

 

[tjd2004]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Alpha 1 Shift Problem

I do not know. I purchased the boat, (very good price,) with some mechnical problems.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Alpha 1 Shift Problem

The forward control cable ends at the shift-interupt plate, where it joins with the Lower shift cable..... <br />this Should be mounted to the Valve cover, or on the exhaust manifold......<br /><br />BTW, go to the top of this page,+ Click on Manuals.......<br />Find the 1 that covers Your Engine/Drive,+ Buy 1.............

 

[tjd2004]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Alpha 1 Shift Problem

Bondo, thanks for the reply, but I probably was not very clear in my question. I know where the "shift plate" is " connected to the valvecover" and what I was trying to say ealier is after I disconnect the cable from the shift plate (this is the cable that is now directly connected to the alpha one drive, If i grab the cable I can only move it less than a 1/4 inch. It acts like the linkage (inside the drive unit is bound up, or jammed) I have ordered a manual, but was looking for some advice on how to access the shift linkage in the alpha drive unit.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[Bondo]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Alpha 1 Shift Problem

Go buy a Lower Shift Cable Kit...NAPA # 18-2603<br />This includes All the Stuff you'll need to replace the cable......<br />The Lower Shift Cable is Known to go Bad,+ your 96 is about Due.....<br />If, by chance, this Isn't your Problem, You'll be in the Right Neighborhood to See What Is Wrong.....<br /><br />Time, Sitting is the Worst thing for the Lower Shift Cable........<br />

but was looking for some advice on how to access the shift linkage in the alpha drive unit.<br />

Remove the six(6) nuts holding the drive on, two(2) holding the rear of the trim rams, loosen the two(2) holding the front of the rams,<br />Pull the Drive,+ You're looking at the Shift Control Parts.........

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Alpha 1 Shift Problem

tjd,Bondo has it right pull the outdrive.Then try moving the cable.You'll most likely find it still stiff (typical).If so,replace the cable.<br /> 3 things..<br /> <br /> When you pull the drive,it must be in forward! ! ! !<br /><br /> If the motor is NOT running,have some one turn the prop by hand when trying to shift.<br /><br /> Opt for the factory drive manual.If you but a used one,make sure it is the current revision.M/C updates them often.<br /> DHP<br /> I lied. 4 Things.Make sure the old cable isn't melted (outside housing) Near the manifold elsow.If the motor is over heating,you can't replace the cable often enough.

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Alpha 1 Shift Problem

Also watch the manifold Elbow.It's right near the elsow.(grin)<br />DHP

 

[tjd2004]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Alpha 1 Shift Problem

Thanks guys I really appreciate the advice. I have purchased the lower shift cable kit, (and tool) and found some very good detailed instruction on sterndrives.com.