Mercury 4.5 hp no reverse after foot removal

[jon8910]

Hi, I took the foot (and powerhead) off my 1975 Mercury 45 (4.5hp) outboard to fit a new impeller. I put it back together, neutral and forward gears are fine, tested in a bin of water, but I can't seem to get reverse. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.<br /><br />Regards<br /><br />Jon

 

[Laddies]

Re: Mercury 4.5 hp no reverse after foot removal

You need to remove the lower unit, put it and the engine in rev. gear and reinstall it--Bob

 

[jon8910]

Re: Mercury 4.5 hp no reverse after foot removal

Thanks Bob, How do I know the lower unit is in reverse? Which direction do I turn the shaft? I thought there was a flat on the spline that I lined up and presumed the gears were indexed. I could be wrong though. Thanks again for the reply.<br /><br />Jon