So first step in me rebuilding my 1978 evinrude 150hp v6 was to get the motor started. I bought the boat and motor knowing it would start, but wouldn't crank. I checked spark and compression and checked out. Fuel was fine. Replaced spark plugs to correct ones and it fired up. The next day i went to the lake to give the boat a spin and a few things happened:
1. The trim motor was stuck in the up position, continuously trying to put motor up. Resolved (temporarily) by removing the fuse and disconnecting motor and dropping motor with the included manual screw. Will return to that topic later.
2. When i tried to holeshot, the engine would rev, the propeller sounded like it was spinning up slowly then would catch and take off, but it didn't sound good. I thought it was just the propeller being too aggressive and catching. When i got back, first thing i checked was the lower unit oil which was chocolate milk. I failed to mention that before i took it to the lake i had drained and refilled the lower unit oil.
There are currently 735 hours on the engine, and only driven in freshwater (as far as i know and can tell from the current state (or lackthereof) corrosion)
So in current repairs, i have replaced the trim motor solenoid (motor lift issue fixed)
Replaced spark plugs. Changed out one of the power packs, as when i tested it initially, 2 of the ignition coils didn't have spark.
Replaced and pressure tested seals in lower unit, held around 7 psi for a bit (i didn't time it but it didn't seem to leaking) so hoping that is fine.
Let me be clear. I am not a mechanic of any sort. I am a Chef by trade. I would consider myself mechanically inclined (including a degree in physics) Everything i have done so far is from posts here (or marineengine.com) or youtube. If i don't get the terminology right or technical term correct, i apologize.
SO back to why i am here asking for assistance. When I replaced the gasket on the shift linkage (? i think thats what it is) i had to take it apart, and tried to put it back together and thought all was well. When i tried to put motor into gear, it would only shift into reverse. When trying to engage forward, it feels like it's stuck. I was trying to find a resource that would have instructions or a diagram of how the linkage works. I also have the "service manual" but doesn't mention anything about the shift linkage for the lower unit. It doesn't even seem to have the diagram of the exact motor i have, there are several that are pretty darn close, but not this one. Any help would be appreciated.
Oh and the boat that the motor is on is a 1979 Terry bass boat (17') that I purchased for $850. (don't judge me)
I have posted the same question on the marineengine.com forum and the only reply i got was "You need to make sure you have a gasket" but no implementation or how to ensure i have the linkage setup.
any help will be appreciated.
I am also planning/starting on re-wiring the boat for an upgrade (hopefully) on the TM and because all of the wiring is 42+ years old
The Engine Serial Number or model number is 158049S