volvo sterndrive

[Dionna Fortune]

I have a 2003 32.8 four winns with 5.7 volvo penta stern drive onn engine shift forward an in reverse ok but the second stays in neutral? Could it be debris in case or fluid the boat set dry dock for two years?

 

[RicardoMarine]

Begin by checking the drive oil.
Water or incorrect drive oil can have an affect on the sliding sleeve and gear cups.

Next, check to see that shift cable connections at all locations are solid.
See if a cable end has broken off.
Check to see that the cable clamp at the drive is secure.

Equally important, check to see that the cable is operating the "eccentric piston" at the drive's transmission.
This will be the diamond shaped horizontal brass part as shown below.

With the piston in absolute neutral, make all adjustments from this point forward aiming for "Neutral" adjustments.
There will be some full FWD and full REV engagement cable "over-travel" that will be divided equally.
IOW, split this over-travel so that the cable is able to provide full rotation of the eccentric piston.

If all else is A-OK, remove the shift mechanism and check condition of the shift "shoe".
(cost is one new O-ring)
I believe that if the drive is raised all the way UP, this can be done without draining the gear oil.
The shift shoe will be exposed once the housing has been removed..... and will be similar to this one.

These have been known to break.
If so, you'll want to investigate as to why.