Shifter cables stretched ?

[tommarvin]

Why do you have to buy new shifter and throttle cables because there stretched from being old, can't you just tighten and adjust them?

The problem is when we go in forward,then back to neutral, the neutral interlock switch is centered perfect, but then when we go in reverse then back to neutral,the neutral interlock switch doesn't get pushed down.
We have adjusted the NIS several times, the motor goes in forward and reverse fine.
We have Morse controls single handle, motor is a 1258X4A , 1988 125hp force.
Not one guy in any forum has said to adjust the cables? Why is that ?
Thank you for any and all help.

 

[gm280]

tom, it is not the cable with the problem, it is the mechanical linkages that wears and goes out of specs. And that is because there is one little area that allows the neutral safety switch to work properly. The usual shifter type cables are a solid wire from one end to the other. And while I am certain it does change length do to temps with expansions and contractions (typical metal issues), it is so minute that it would never cause such things to happen that way. Any pivoting point wears and loosens up and causes those things along with connections holes wearing larger offering slack and endplay. JMHO!

 

[GA_Boater]

Cables don't stretch. The cables wear and the strands break inside. The lining wears and adds to sloppy cables, whether the cables are stranded or solid.

The adjustment makes up for some wear, but after 28 years old - They're due for replacement.

 

[jerryjerry05]

First check the shifter for slop.
​It should be smooth and precise when moving through the gears.Unhook the connectors at the motor.
Then the cable. Usually the cable is good if the casing isn't broken or badly kinked.
A too short cable can be a problem too.
A sticky/ dirty cable: it should be easily pulled in and out
Then at the motor.
The linkage on the motor should be tight and no slop.

The shift rod going into the gear housing it goes through a seal that can get corroded and swell and make shifting darn near impossible.