shifter control needs tightening. need help asap

[holligan]

hi all, I'm stuck n need some help before I admit defeate and take my 2004 sportster to the shop.

My issue is this. My reverse gate does not go all the way up when in forward. The gate drops down about a quarter of an inch. I was blowing bolts out of the reverse gate where they attach and after many hours i figured this was the issue. I now need to tighten the sifter cable. I cannot for the life of me loosen it. I went through the engine compartment removed the silicone and the only nut is on the outside of the hull near the jet.

I cannot get any tools in there to loosen it and I'm stuck. I have been forced to remove the reverse gate when I want to take the boat out as a temp. solution.

has anyone else had this issue? am I right to think it is the shift cable needs tightening or could it be another problem? im dead in the water right now. Any insight would be appreciated!

 

[Dr Honda]

There's a latch that holds the gate up. Adjust the cable at the pump end, so the catch will engage.

BUT... make sure the catch is still there. They can break.

 

[holligan]

Yeah the latch is there. The cable is loose so the latch does not stay engaged. I have to loosen that plastic nut to adjust the cable but due to the confined space i'm having issues getting it loose. The gate falls back about a quarter inch covering the jet in forward.

 

[Dr Honda]

Actually.... every once in a while... that plastic mount will crack, and you loose tension.

You should probably remove the pump to get a better look at it.

 

[holligan]

i was able to get it. The housing was fine no cracks. It appears that it is a new cable that the previous owner installed however didnt make the right adjustments to it. I got if fixed and now ready for water. Thanks!