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Alpha shift interuptshift cable questions

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bbordin

New member
"On an 87 mercruiser with alph

"On an 87 mercruiser with alpha outdrive, what all is entailed in replacing the shift cable and bellows? The bellows has a crack in it, so that needs changed. The shift interupt switch is also causing a problem both with the engine cutting out when not wanted (at speed, or at idle) and not allowing shifting when wanted (IE cant shift into neutral or reverse from forward, and vise versa.) I'm guessing, haven't confirmed yet, that the cable will also need replacing. Next is to undo the cable at the junction on the starboard manifold and play with it manually to check for binding.
Does the outdrive have to be removed to change the shift cable?

Thanks in advance for any answers."
 
"Yes, the outdrive does have t

"Yes, the outdrive does have to be removed to replace the shift cable, I finished up this morning replacing mine, 85 Merc/Alpha, it's not a difficult job if you have decent mechanical ablilties and a freind to help out when more than two hands are needed. Removing/ installing the cable requires an xtra deep 9/16 socket, I had my local welder weld two sockets together. A good Seloc Manual will give you step by step intructions. I'm sure a few of the good people on this board will give you a shout out, Tons of experience here. Good Luck DLux"
 
"Hey thanks, how long did it t

"Hey thanks, how long did it take? If it is just the shift cable and bellows, any other parts needed. Gimbal was changed not too many hours ago. Cable should have been done then, IMO.

I feel I've got decent skills, just never been into an outdrive before."
 
Rule one is before you take th

Rule one is before you take the outdrive off make sure you put it in forward gear. Makes life a lot easier when you re-install the unit. Since you have the drive off I would do the pump and change and inspect the fluid. Make sure when you run the new shift cable keep the bends to a minimum and pay attention to the linkage. DO NOT over tighten the linkage assembly the connects to the cable. Snug is good.
 
Use a strong zip tie to clamp

Use a strong zip tie to clamp the small end of the bellows in lieu of the metal clamp.
 
"Parts ordered, outdrive off.

"Parts ordered, outdrive off. Cable was actually fairly easy to operate, but since it's apart and needs bellows, it will get changed anyway.

Outdrive literally took 5-10 minutes to remove. Hope it continues that way."
 
"Did you split the upper case

"Did you split the upper case from the lower, replace your impellor while you have everything apart, pay special attention to the seal at the upper end of the copper water pick up tube."
 
"Parts should be here Mon/Tues

"Parts should be here Mon/Tues. I did order an impellor. Haven't split the case, but obviously will. What do you recommend on sealing the pick up tube?"
 
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