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100hp Johnson Wont shift into neutral

J

jmh8098

New member
"I have a 100 hp Johnson model

"I have a 100 hp Johnson model 100 ESL72R. The motor runs fine I just can not get it to shift into neutral or into reverse. I just ordered a manual from the site, and will probably be ordering the part list very soon as well, but where is the linkage that goes to the lower unit? When I move the remote control I see it manipulating the throttle, but I cant seem to see where it would disengage the drive for forward and reverse. Is this just a simple adjustment or should I bring it in and have a pro look at it? I really don't want to do the latter because the stripers are running in the river and I don't want to be without my boat. Any help would be greatly appreciated."
 
"The clutch shifter dog is spr

"The clutch shifter dog is spring loaded and the default shift mode is forward gear. See the following for a complete explanation.

(Hydro Electric Shift)
(J. Reeves)

The shifting setup of the lower unit is what's called a "Hydro Electric Shift", which is quite complex consisting of voltage being applied to solenoids in the lower unit which in turn change oil passages via a oil pump that supplies various pressure on a spring loaded shifter dog. The wires leading to the lower unit (at the powerhead) are "Green" and "Blue". The engine must be running or cranking over in order to shift out of forward gear.

You CAN NOT use HI VIS lube in that lower unit. You MUST USE what OMC calls "Premium Blend" lube, commonly called "Type C". (A thinner lube)

Note: The engine must be running OR have the driveshaft turning by some other means in order for the engine to shift.

In neutral, you need 12v to the "Green" wire.
In reverse, you need 12v to both wires, the "Green" one and the "Blue" one.
In forward, there should be no voltage to either wire. (The spring loaded shifter dog forces the unit into forward gear)

To check the lower unit for proper shifting to make sure you have no trouble there, remove the spark plugs to avoid problems and to allow a higher cranking speed.

This next step eliminates the actual shift switch in case problems may exist there.... Disconnect the blue & green wires at the knife connectors (the rubber insulated boots) leading to the lower unit at the powerhead, then using jumpers, take voltage direct from the starter solenoid to apply voltage to the "Green" wire for neutral, then both wires 'Green" & "Blue" for reverse (Remember the engine must be cranking over in order to shift).
With no voltage applied, the unit should be in forward. No need for a ground jumper... the lower unit's already grounded. You may crank the engine with the key switch or by energizing the starter solenoid with a jumper wire.

When time permits, visit my store at: http://stores.ebay.com/Evinrude-Johnson-Outboard-Parts-etc?refid=store"
 
"Joe,

Thanks for your input

"Joe,

Thanks for your input I will troubleshoot it this weekend and let you know how I make out. Another thing about the motor is the guy I bought it from said it needed a diode. I do not know what this diode controls but could it possibly have something to do with my shifting problem? This diode that is missing is on the side of the motor where the throttle mechanism is. If you are looking at the motor from the side it is just down a bit to the left. There are some metal prongs sticking up and there is an aliator clip bridging two of the terminals sticking out. I do not know the part # or even the official name for the part. I have a owners manual on order but for now I'm in the dark. I thought I could get at least some diagrams on the net, but you cant find them anywhere, apparently the copyright laws are very tough on things of this nature. Any ideas? I'd really like to get on the water this weekend."
 
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