No forward or reverse

[JJM.IV]

Merc 2002, 150 HP carb, was working perfect yesterday but today it will not shift into forward or reverse at idle. Linkage appears to move and feel normal. Where should I start trouble shooting? I have not checked the lower unit oil but it is less than 1 season old. Thx-

 

[Jeff_G]

Re: No forward or reverse

Check the gear oil for water and metal.
Look at the shift shaft, small round rod coming out of the front of the gearcase and see if it turns when a helper tries to move the gear shift lever.
If the shift shaft turns the gearcase will need to come apart.

 

[JJM.IV]

Re: No forward or reverse

Thx - just checked LU oil - a little low but blue and no shavings. Not sure what you mean with term shift shaft? Is gear shift lever the accelerator / shifter? What is the potential problem that this will ID? FYI - I have a shop manual but only slightly familiar with O/B mechanics. Appreciate the help and insight!