How hard is it to change the transom shift cable on a 3.0L Merc?

Question

I have a 1987 Sea Ray Seville with a 3.0L Mercruiser Alpha One. I was on the water and when approaching the dock the boat got stuck in reverse. I pulled it out and noticed the shift cable outer jacket had separated from the outdrive. Cable is not broken but will not shift into forward due to lack of rigidity. Any help or insight would be appreciated.

Answer 1

I have the same problem on a 87 Citation 3.0 Merc as it will not go into reverse. My mechanic told me that a Merc shift cable kit would run about $70-$80 for each (fwd & reverse) & about 1 hour of labor. Unless you've worked on boat mechanical equipment, I would have a certified mechanic do it.

I wanted to try myself but I can just see my boat going forward when I want to back out of the launch. Good Luck!!

Answer 2

go to this web site go to forum section than go to repairs and post that question  they will tell you www.wellcraftv20.com

you have to register but its free and a great site its not only about wellcrafts but motors and anything else fishing boating recipes forsale   its a good site for boaters there people just like you and me   good luck

Answer 3

This is a common problem with mercruiser and OMC Cobra.  There is a detailed procedure in the service manual for your stern drive.  Marine mechanics that have done this "often" can do it much easier than you can, and in this case it's probably worth paying for the job.   Novices sometimes get into more trouble than that intend, then can't get the new cable adjusted and end up looking for help.

Answer 4

Check this:

http://www.mercstuff.com/shiftcable2.htm

Frank