Shift Lever Sticks in Forward

[scarfie]

I had a hell of a time trying to dock the boat this weekend because everytime I shift into forward, the shifter sticks in forward and does not return to neutral. Reverse to neutral is not an issue. This is happening with the boat running and not running.

I finally figured out that I can physically reach under from the swim platform and move the reverse gate to the neutral position. It moves easily. Of course the shifter moves back to neutral as well. This makes me think it has something to do with the position of the reverse gate and (hopefully) not an issue with the shift control unit.

The crazy thing is, this only happens when the boat is in the water...when it is on the trailer, it shifts from forward to neutral no problem (with the shift lever). As soon as it goes in the water, it won't shift. This is without the boat running so there is no pressure from the jet on the reverse gate.

I'm thinking maybe the reverse gate goes too far in the up position making the angle of the shifting cable too severe for it to push the gate back down. But why would this only happen in the water and not when it's on the trailer? Weird.

Anyone have any ideas on what else might be causing this?

Thanks!

 

[kustomkarl]

uh oh your boat hates the water...I have seen that before...Check the linkage on the reverse gate...it needs adjustment. Has nothing to do with the water...

Karl

 

[scarfie]

Wow that was quick, Karl. Thanks. The boat loves the water...it just wants to go forward...and fast!

I still don't understand why this only happens in the water.

You think the linkage is too tight or too loose?

Thanks for the quick reply!

 

[kustomkarl]

If you look at it you'll see the adjustment ...see which way it needs to go. It could be either way...You have to feel it, and see it to adjust it. Have some one push the lever and you observe it...

Karl

 

[scarfie]

That did the trick. Adjusted the linkage and problem solved. Thank you.

 

[kustomkarl]

Glad it worked out for you ...

Karl