Stalling when shifting from fwd to reverse

RDM77

Cadet
Joined
May 31, 2007
Messages
10
I have a 1991 Merc 5.0 350 V8 . The motor runs fine and starts every time on the first crank. The carb was rebuilt this spring, as well as primary and secondary filters changed and a water separator . The idle is perfect at b/w 650-700 rpms. Here problem: The motor stalls when shifting from Fwd to Reverse Docking. This happens almost ever time pulling up to dock. There is nothing worse! Is there a adjustment on the throttle cable, or maybe cable needs lubed? I know while shifting there is a monetary stall. But cat figure out the adjustment to keep it from dieing. Any help is greatly appreciated!!! I can only put so many more dock scratches on the boat
 

stevieray

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jul 18, 2006
Messages
1,135
Re: Stalling when shifting from fwd to reverse

If it's an Alpha 1 drive, probably bad lower shift cable. There is a little adjustment that can be done, but it is most likely due for replacement.
 

RDM77

Cadet
Joined
May 31, 2007
Messages
10
Re: Stalling when shifting from fwd to reverse

Where is this adjustment located at? should it be tighten or loosen? Also if i decide to replace lower cable should i have mechanic do it ? Or go at it alone . Thanks again
 

stevieray

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jul 18, 2006
Messages
1,135
Re: Stalling when shifting from fwd to reverse

Is it Alpha or Bravo drive?
 

paulrfrancisco

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Oct 25, 2004
Messages
341
Re: Stalling when shifting from fwd to reverse

adjusting is a process and a little tricky. If you plan on replacing the cable, have a mechanic do it and adjust it correctly... You can probably find on this forum, the process to adjust it....if you're up to the challenge
 

RDM77

Cadet
Joined
May 31, 2007
Messages
10
Re: Stalling when shifting from fwd to reverse

It is a Alpha 1 drive
 

stevieray

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jul 18, 2006
Messages
1,135
Re: Stalling when shifting from fwd to reverse

Here's a link to an on-line manual. Read it carefully & if you feel any trepidation, by all means take it to a mechanic. There is only a very slight adjustment possible & it is only a temporary fix - you'd be lucky to get a half a season out of it. Once the cable has worn, it should be replaced.

http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Servmanl/14/14cover.pdf
 
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