Outdrive removal...shift cable replacement?

[xdgt03]

I know there are a thousand threads dealing with various aspect of this procedure and I do have both the OMC manual and the link to the Hastings site for the cable adjustment.

I am getting ready to do this and have not found any good info as to how the shift cable connects to the outdrive. It seems like it just slides into the outdrive so there is nothing to disconnect. Can anyone confirm this connection?

Thanks, Scott

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Outdrive removal...shift cable replacement?

It will be obvious once you pull the drive. Your manual tells you all of this. You have a factory manual right?

 

[4WinnsCobra89]

Re: Outdrive removal...shift cable replacement?

I just did this last weekend on my '89 OMC Cobra. Make sure you have the outdrive completely off, disconnect exhaust hose (bottom) and driveshaft boot (top rubber housing), there are 2 3/4" hex head bolts to take out on either side of whole housing. There is a black control on the right, shift cable attaches to that. It's a pain to get that black arm that the cables connects to out, but once you have it out and attach the cable, it's pretty easy from there. Once you attach new cable and mount the black arm back to it's position, I suggest adjusting the cable then, while you have outdrive off. Remember, the shift rod that moves up and down to engage the gears, only has to move about 1/8" up and down to engage gears.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Outdrive removal...shift cable replacement?

I suggest adjusting the cable then, while you have outdrive off.

Not only is it suggested, its the only way to do it correctly. Follow the manual's directions including the critical setting of the bellcrank at 90 degrees.

 

[xdgt03]

Re: Outdrive removal...shift cable replacement?

Here is the trick...

Take your boat to a local marine shop for a routine repair of the impeller and a diagnosis of the shifting problem. Have them screw up the impeller repair. Have the boat overheat again and demand that they repair the shift cable for free. Agree to pay $80 instead.

'fini