Shift Cam (grooved or not?)

[PinchiPancho]

On a '89 Mercury 100 OB, the shift cam has three positions. Should the shift cam have have a groove in the middle where the sliding clutch makes contact? or is this a sign of excessive wear on this piece? I see there are three distintive positions marks on the shift cam... the top, which seems to engage reverse (I think) the middle is neutral and the bottom which might be forward. Which is the forward position? is the groove part of the shift cam or is this extra wear that may be preventing me from engaging reverse? Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[Keith Buchanan]

Re: Shift Cam (grooved or not?)

Yes,no<br />Bottom

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: Shift Cam (grooved or not?)

The original part has no grooves. If it's deep, I'd replace it. Especially if there are dimples where the point of the follower spins on it. Also check the point on the follower. If it's rather rounded, replace that too.