25 Merc. shifting ?

[Rivernut]

I posted this in the Equip./expert thread w/no replies. I will try here. '96 25 Merc. tiller will not always want to go into reverse. Tried adjusting the push/pull cables. Think they are correct. It feels like it is binding up when it doesnt shift. Lower unit has been well taken care of. Any other ideas. Thanks in advance. Mike

[boatfixer]

So when you say it feels like it is binding up, the handle wont rotate? and when it will go into gear, you feel no resistance and it goes right in? If thats the description, it sounds to me like the reverse lock mechansism is binding up then. Have a look at that, it's located roughly between the transom mount brackets. Shift it a few times while watching that area and you find what I'm talking about. Manualy operate it and see if that makes a difference.

[Rivernut]

Thanks boatfixer, that is exactly what is doing. I will check that and post what I find.

[Rivernut]

Boatfixer, I found where you were talking about. The only thing I could see moving was a metal rod moving vertically. Is that what we are looking for. Or would it be a horizontal moving part. I also saw a grease fitting right there. Don't know if that would do anything, but I greased her up. That would be the first time in about ten years. Oopsie.

[boatfixer]

The vertical rod is the shift shaft. The horizontal part is part of the reverse lock. Just see if there is any binding where the 2 meet or where the "locks" meet the trim pin.

[Rivernut]

Will do, thanks again for the help.