Need Help. 2004 SX Outdrive Prop Not Spinning in Reverse

[BiggerCabo]

I need some help.

I have a 2004 Crownline with a 5.7GXi with the SX outdrive. Shifting into forward is really easy and works well. Prop spins all is good. Shifting into reverse is very different. It is difficult and if I am able to shift into reverse the prop does not spin. Here is what I have done to troubleshoot the problem and results. I did this in my driveway with earmuffs on.

1. To test the shift cable, I disconnected the linkage cable at the outdrive upper gear unit. When I did that, the shifting from the drivers seat worked easy and smooth. This rules out a linkage cable problem.

2. With the linkage cable disconnected at the upper gear unit, I started the engine and shifted the drive into forward manually by turning the eccentric piston. Everything worked great. Easy to shift into forward, prop starts turning. No problem.

3. Here is where I have problems.. Manually shifting into reverse by turning the eccentric piston is a problem. It is very difficult to get it into reverse. Sometimes it won't go into reverse. When it does, the prop does not turn. It acts like it wants to. It will move a little, might even turn a couple of rotations, but never really engages. Any ideas or suggestions?

4. I also replaced the lower unit oil. There was evidence of some water in the oil.

Anybody have any suggestions on what might be wrong or how to fix?

 

[HalfFish5087]

I'll bite. IMHO; I would start by taking the outdrive off. Then drain most of the oil back out and remove the shift actuator. Make note of the position of the shift shoe during removal. Check out the condition of the gears. Rotate the removed eccentric piston arm to determine if the problem is inside it or in the gears and report back.

 

[HalfFish5087]

I forgot to mention Welcome to Iboats!

 

[Pesimist]

Although not on an SX Drive, I had a similar problem on my 290 DP many years ago, turned out it was the "Reverse Locking Mechanism" binding up slightly. After lubing the lower attach pivot point with a healthy amount of grease and exercising the "Lock Collar" all was well again. Recommend before you remove or dig into the drive unit - make sure your reverse lock is functioning smoothly (The reverse lock mechanism keeps the drive locked down when your in reverse).