outboard thumps in and out of gear

[mayo]

I run twin 125 HP force motors on my 21' boat they are both 1986 models. one motor when put in forward thumps or bangs like it is not staying in gear. Any ideas?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: outboard thumps in and out of gear

It sounds like that's what it is doing--bouncing in and out of gear. If this is a new problem, the drive dogs in the lower unit are worn and need replacing or refacing. If this has been a continual problem, first check cables and control box for cerrect operation.

 

[mayo]

Re: outboard thumps in and out of gear

the cables seem to operate properly, but not a smoothly as the other out board. I disconected the cable at the motor and engage it by hand (not running) it dosent seem to drop into gear right away when i turn the prop. it seems to skip a couple of times befor it drops in. So it make sence that the clutch dogs would be worn. Is that difficult to fix on my motor?