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My '71 Johnson 25 has always run like a top, and I have maintained it very well. Recently, I was able to move the shift lever OK but it would not go into FWD gear. I was able to get it into reverse and slowly went about 2 of the 2-1/2 miles I needed to go back to the ramp, but then lost that gear, too, and finished with the trolling motor. Thoughts? Thanks. Jim

Submitted: 105 days and 16 hours ago.

Category: Boat

Value: $9

Status: CLOSED

Make (of engine): Johnson/OMC
Year: 1971
Horsepower: 25

Already Tried:
Nothing -- came home.

Posted by davesoutboard 105 days and 16 hours ago.

Answer

What is the condition of the grease in the gearcase? Please check it and report back.

105 days and 15 hours ago.

Reply

Changed lube early in season -- seems as if it may have some water in it now...

Accepted Answer

OK

take the little cover off the side of the exhaust housing and see if the shift rod is moving up and down when you move the shifter. If it is then the problem is down below and the gearcase will have to come apart. My guess is you are looking at gears and a shifter dog.

Accepts:
Expert:	davesoutboard
Pos. Feedback:	98.8 %
Answered:	8/8/2009

Marine Mechanic

marina owner for 20+years, certified Evinrude tech

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Optional Information

Make (of engine): Johnson/OMC
Year: 1971
Horsepower: 25

Already Tried:
Nothing -- came home.

Answer

What is the condition of the grease in the gearcase? Please check it and report back.

Reply

Changed lube early in season -- seems as if it may have some water in it now...

Accepted Answer

OK

take the little cover off the side of the exhaust housing and see if the shift rod is moving up and down when you move the shifter. If it is then the problem is down below and the gearcase will have to come apart. My guess is you are looking at gears and a shifter dog.

Boat

Have your own Boat question?

Related Boat Topics:

Question

Optional Information

Make (of engine): Johnson/OMCYear: 1971Horsepower: 25 Already Tried: Nothing -- came home.

Answer

What is the condition of the grease in the gearcase? Please check it and report back.

Reply

Changed lube early in season -- seems as if it may have some water in it now...

Accepted Answer

OK take the little cover off the side of the exhaust housing and see if the shift rod is moving up and down when you move the shifter. If it is then the problem is down below and the gearcase will have to come apart. My guess is you are looking at gears and a shifter dog.

Related Boat Questions

Make (of engine): Johnson/OMC
Year: 1971
Horsepower: 25

Already Tried:
Nothing -- came home.

OK

take the little cover off the side of the exhaust housing and see if the shift rod is moving up and down when you move the shifter. If it is then the problem is down below and the gearcase will have to come apart. My guess is you are looking at gears and a shifter dog.