"Mark" wrote in message
h.net...
I'm considering the purchase of a '90 17' I/O with an OMC
Cobra. Boat has not been used for 2 seasons and wasn't
really "winterized" after last use.

It will not shift to Neutral or Reverse (prop runs in
forward at all times). Control, cabling, and linkage
mounted to motor all appear to be behaving as they should.
While running at idle, if I gently start forcing it toward
Reverse, the engine will start to act as though it's getting
a heavy load (RPM drops). No grinding or other abnormal
noises.


It sounds like the shift interrupter switch and electronic module are
working correctly. Your shift cable to the outdrive, the bell-crank linkage,
or the vertical shift rod in the gearcase could be culprits if they are
sticky or frozen with corrosion. My guess would be a stuck vertical shift
rod. If so, the outdrive has to be removed and the upper and lower cases
taken apart to access the shift rod and bushing. Sometimes you can luck out
by removing the o-ring and cleaning out the corrosion. A new shift cover
will be of an improved design to minimize this sticking problem.

Get the factory manual and try to find a knowledgeable tech to help you with
this as it is not a job for an amateur and there have been a few changes and
updates since the 1990 manual was printed.

Bill Grannis
service manager