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  1. #1
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    Difficult to get out of gear

    99 Optimax 225 Serial Number 0G842489
    When running it shifts smoothly into gear both forward and reverse. But difficult with resistance to get it into neutral. To the point where it is very difficult to ease up to a dock or load the trailer.

    1. I disconnected the shift cable from the shifter handle at the console and the shifter handle moves forward to reverse very smoothly with no unexpected resistance.
    2. I disconnected the shift cable from the shifter at the motor and I can manually shift it at the motor very smoothly and no unexpected resistance.
    3. I replaced and adjusted the shift cable per the service manual with no improvement. While the cable was off and we were moving shifter at the helm in the step to determine play in the cable....it shifts very easy.

    I replaced the shift interrupter switch. No improvement.

    Any ideas what else it might be?

    Thank you.
    Chris
    1999 TR-21
    Optimax 225 Serial Number 0G842489

  2. Member
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    #2
    problem in gearcase clutch mechanism , using merc hp gear lube ??????
    .................................................. ...the scariest thing in life is the unknown ...................................

  3. Member
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    #3
    Quote Originally Posted by JOE54 View Post
    problem in gearcase clutch mechanism , using merc hp gear lube ??????
    Yes, using the merc gear lube.
    If there was an issue in the gearcase clutch mechanism, would I be able to shift back and forth by hand with the shift cable disconnected at the motor?
    1999 TR-21
    Optimax 225 Serial Number 0G842489

  4. Member lpugh's Avatar
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    #4
    Idle speed ??
    Thank You Leon Pugh

  5. Member lpugh's Avatar
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    #5
    Quote Originally Posted by BassnChris View Post
    Yes, using the merc gear lube.
    If there was an issue in the gearcase clutch mechanism, would I be able to shift back and forth by hand with the shift cable disconnected at the motor?
    Was the motor running when shifting at the motor?
    Thank You Leon Pugh

  6. Member
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    #6
    Quote Originally Posted by lpugh View Post
    Was the motor running when shifting at the motor?
    No the motor was not running at the time.
    Idle was about 550.
    1999 TR-21
    Optimax 225 Serial Number 0G842489

  7. Member Especial Bryanmc57's Avatar
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    #7
    Shifting the gear case without the motor running or turning the prop by hand can cause some issues....


    Honora Primum Vel Nullum Omnin Honorem

  8. Member
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    #8
    ^^^^^^+1, also prop loads at idle can create different shift characteristics in gearcase, make sure link arm from upper shift shaft is not worn and rubbing under loads near lower cowling
    .................................................. ...the scariest thing in life is the unknown ...................................

  9. Member
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    #9
    I’m having a shift issue too. Mine is hard getting out of gear when it’s in the water. Shifts fine on hose. Hoping someone has the answers to your problem.

  10. Member
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    #10
    I had the same issue on a Opti 200 Pro XS. Had a 26 Fury on it. Switched back to my 26 Tempest and it went away. Baffles me.

  11. Member
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    #11
    Quote Originally Posted by Bryanmc57 View Post
    Shifting the gear case without the motor running or turning the prop by hand can cause some issues....
    Someone was spinning the prop while I shifted.
    1999 TR-21
    Optimax 225 Serial Number 0G842489

  12. Member
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    #12
    Quote Originally Posted by Shuck Grass View Post
    I’m having a shift issue too. Mine is hard getting out of gear when it’s in the water. Shifts fine on hose. Hoping someone has the answers to your problem.
    I did not word my post very well......my issue is like yours.
    1999 TR-21
    Optimax 225 Serial Number 0G842489

  13. Member
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    #13
    Be sure engine is not tilted to much

  14. Mercury 3L/4 Stroke/Verado Moderator EuropeanAM's Avatar
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    #14
    Quote Originally Posted by JOE54 View Post
    ^^^^^^+1, also prop loads at idle can create different shift characteristics in gearcase, make sure link arm from upper shift shaft is not worn and rubbing under loads near lower cowling
    +100

    This is usually a dead-giveaway that someone has been attempting to shift with the engine OFF. The "boomerang" shaped arm that runs from under the intake back to the shift slide is easily BENT and then drags or binds on the lower cowling. If this is the case- replace (or at the very least, straighten the part that should be flat).


    Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
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  15. Member
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    #15
    Quote Originally Posted by EuropeanAM View Post
    +100

    This is usually a dead-giveaway that someone has been attempting to shift with the engine OFF. The "boomerang" shaped arm that runs from under the intake back to the shift slide is easily BENT and then drags or binds on the lower cowling. If this is the case- replace (or at the very least, straighten the part that should be flat).
    Thanks - Is this the part?
    883142A03

    I did not want to post a pic from manual because I think that would be a no no,
    1999 TR-21
    Optimax 225 Serial Number 0G842489

  16. Member
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    #16
    I have this problem too can you keep us posted and let us know the remedy Please

  17. Member
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    #17
    Quote Originally Posted by wisranger188 View Post
    I have this problem too can you keep us posted and let us know the remedy Please
    Will do.
    1999 TR-21
    Optimax 225 Serial Number 0G842489

  18. Member
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    #18
    I brought my boat to the shop twice ( same shop) said he couldn’t find anything wrong. Don’t know how hard he tried. Seems if it’s as easy to check the part as mentioned, he didn’t put much effort into it. Scheduled to go to a different shop next week. I’ll let y’all know the outcome when/if they find anything. I may try to look for the worn piece this weekend if time allows.

  19. Member Especial Bryanmc57's Avatar
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    #19
    Quote Originally Posted by BassnChris View Post
    Thanks - Is this the part?
    883142A03
    That's the correct part. Not sure if that's the current number or not.


    Honora Primum Vel Nullum Omnin Honorem

  20. Member
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    #20
    Quote Originally Posted by Bryanmc57 View Post
    That's the correct part. Not sure if that's the current number or not.
    It looked straight to me when I removed it.

    I did notice there was a fair amount of play..... (See video clip)
    Does that look normal?

    I do not have that play in it after reinstalling.
    Taking boat out tomorrow to test it.
    I will post back afterwards.

    1999 TR-21
    Optimax 225 Serial Number 0G842489

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