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200hp Johnson shift problem

C

chawk250

Member
I have just replaced the lower unit due to problems with the original. Now, it seems likely to me that I did not screw the shift rod in the proper amount, because I have to move control handle about an inch and a half into forward and an inch into reverse to engage the gears. Previously it engaged immediately, when moved out of the neutral position.

Since boat has now been launched, can I correct this by adjusting the cable at the knurled wheel I see on starboard side beneath the cowling?…other suggestions?
 
No....... You will need to drop the lower unit and adjust the shift rod to its critical required measurement. Attempting to adjust the shift otherwise will absolutely result in internal damage to the lower unit.

The exact measurement depends on the year of that 200hp engine.
 
:confused: UGH! Morgan Marina was nice enough to pull my boat and leave it in the slings while I worked on it overnight. Rod was only very slightly off and the adjustment to 26 15/16" (+5" for 25" shaft) didn't do the trick. What do I look at now? [remember> 2000 motor and 1996 lower unit]
 
Shift rod has a metal plate near where the cable connects. The plate has a cut-out switch mounted to it. Rod that shifts the lower unit is spot welded to that plate. Disconnect the cable and move the shift arm slightly in both directions and see if the weld is broken. Don't ask how I know this. Also, don't ask about the LU that the previous owner had rebuilt because of this.
 
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