shift cable and lower unit question

[oddysea1]

Im in the process of replacing my shift cable on my 200h.p 1989 yamaha.While making some adjustments at the motor I noticed the shifting spline goes into gear easier when slowly moving the propellor, is this normal? Generally when shifting into gear at the throttle it feels a little stiff.Also noticed some sediment in lower unit oil during oil change,how much different should new oil look than old oil?Any insight would be appreciated.

 

[robert graham]

Re: shift cable and lower unit question

Most any gearbox will shift smoother if it's turning some. In the outboard lower unit there's clutch dogs that engage and disengage so some shaft movement would help. A very small amount of sediment in lower unit oil could indicate a bit of water or moisture, but maybe not enough to cause damage. Your magnetic drain plug is an indicator of possible problems. When I do my yearly lower unit oil change on my 90HP Yamaha, the oil I drain out looks like new, but I understand some motors tend to darken their lower unit oils....different motors and different oils?....Sounds like you don't have much problems with your lower unit. Good Luck!

 

[99yam40]

Re: shift cable and lower unit question

Any sediment that comes out of a oil filled gear box is not good,
What kind of sediment are you talking about? metal?

 

[oddysea1]

Re: shift cable and lower unit question

I still have oil sample it is a yellowish brown it does not appear to have water in it, the viscosity appears good ,also I have not seen any water- oil seperation over time.Are there any tests that can detect any issues or contaminates.I did have a shifting issue with gear grinding several times due to stretched shifting cable.

 

[robert graham]

Re: shift cable and lower unit question

Sounds like you don't have an oil contamination problem, and the shifter cable/mechanism needs adjusting. Find neutral at your lower unit shifter shaft, then put your control in the neutral position, bolt it up, start from there. Good Luck!