Mercruiser Alpha One lower unit shift problem?

[dandi]

I have an Alpha One sterndrive that we have off the boat and have separated the upper and lower unit. We are having problems getting it to lock into forward by turning the propeller counterclockwise. I believe the instructions are to turn it counterclockwise with the shift shaft in forward position. When the propeller is then turned clockwise it locks and the lower unit is in forward. This is the condition you want before putting the 2 halves together.

When I put the lower unit is in the forward positon and try to turn the propeller shaft counterclockwise it wil not turn. If I try to turn it clockwise it makes a clicking noise and the shift shaft jumps and allows the propeller shaft to turm.

Also the vertical shaft doesn't turn freely, should it?

 

[Bondo]

Re: Mercruiser Alpha One lower unit shift problem?

When I put the lower unit is in the forward positon and try to turn the propeller shaft counterclockwise it wil not turn. If I try to turn it clockwise it makes a clicking noise and the shift shaft jumps and allows the propeller shaft to turm.

Ayuh,...... That sounds Right....

 

[dandi]

Re: Mercruiser Alpha One lower unit shift problem?

After reading several different posts, I decided everything might be ok. Just wanted to be sure before we put it all back together.

Thanks

 

[JustJason]

Re: Mercruiser Alpha One lower unit shift problem?

You need to read about or see how a clutch dog works... Its kinda counterintuitive to most people who do not work on boats.