Home |
Search |
Today's Posts |
|
#1
posted to rec.boats
|
|||
|
|||
Quicksilver shift cable engine cutout dilemma
This topic may have been done to death already, apologies for this repeat.
I've got a Mercruiser 130hp carburated 4.0L 4-cyl inboard with the Quicksilver shift cable system. When switching between forward and reverse the shifter is supposed to be stopped in idle for a brief moment before changing intp gear. Every so often when I do this the engine cuts right out as the shifter goes into idle. This happens when docking or embarking, often after a 10m lake haul, causing a mad scramble to restart the engine and avoid collision with docks, shorelines and other boats. Except the only way to prevent further stalls is to ram the shifter through the idle without stopping, and not good for the drive. I know that the shift system intentionally cuts the ignition spark for a millisecond to protect the cables and drive gears from damage by a cutout switch on the switch plate, and that there's a lower cable to the sterndrive and another between the shift box and shift plate. I don't know if I should pull the tools and try to fine tune the settings and risk overlooking a critical tweak, discovery this fact floating toward a parked Glastron at 10 knots, or take it to the marina? I've gotten nowhere with this marina on this matter though, and I know that the mechanic knows what the problem is. They just want me to come crawling on hands on knees with a wad of dough. KT |
#2
posted to rec.boats
|
|||
|
|||
Quicksilver shift cable engine cutout dilemma
On Sun, 19 Nov 2006 11:53:44 -0500, "Kilgore Trout"
wrote: This topic may have been done to death already, apologies for this repeat. I've got a Mercruiser 130hp carburated 4.0L 4-cyl inboard with the Quicksilver shift cable system. When switching between forward and reverse the shifter is supposed to be stopped in idle for a brief moment before changing intp gear. Every so often when I do this the engine cuts right out as the shifter goes into idle. This happens when docking or embarking, often after a 10m lake haul, causing a mad scramble to restart the engine and avoid collision with docks, shorelines and other boats. Except the only way to prevent further stalls is to ram the shifter through the idle without stopping, and not good for the drive. I know that the shift system intentionally cuts the ignition spark for a millisecond to protect the cables and drive gears from damage by a cutout switch on the switch plate, and that there's a lower cable to the sterndrive and another between the shift box and shift plate. I don't know if I should pull the tools and try to fine tune the settings and risk overlooking a critical tweak, discovery this fact floating toward a parked Glastron at 10 knots, or take it to the marina? I've gotten nowhere with this marina on this matter though, and I know that the mechanic knows what the problem is. They just want me to come crawling on hands on knees with a wad of dough. KT When I was having a similar problem, one of the old time mechanics at the marina said "not" to hesitate when shifting from forward to reverse, when the rpm is at a reasonably slow amount. Now I don't pause. It's one motion from forward to reverse, and I've had no more problems. |
#3
posted to rec.boats
|
|||
|
|||
Quicksilver shift cable engine cutout dilemma
"JohnH" wrote in message ... On Sun, 19 Nov 2006 11:53:44 -0500, "Kilgore Trout" wrote: This topic may have been done to death already, apologies for this repeat. I've got a Mercruiser 130hp carburated 4.0L 4-cyl inboard with the Quicksilver shift cable system. When switching between forward and reverse the shifter is supposed to be stopped in idle for a brief moment before changing intp gear. Every so often when I do this the engine cuts right out as the shifter goes into idle. This happens when docking or embarking, often after a 10m lake haul, causing a mad scramble to restart the engine and avoid collision with docks, shorelines and other boats. Except the only way to prevent further stalls is to ram the shifter through the idle without stopping, and not good for the drive. I know that the shift system intentionally cuts the ignition spark for a millisecond to protect the cables and drive gears from damage by a cutout switch on the switch plate, and that there's a lower cable to the sterndrive and another between the shift box and shift plate. I don't know if I should pull the tools and try to fine tune the settings and risk overlooking a critical tweak, discovery this fact floating toward a parked Glastron at 10 knots, or take it to the marina? I've gotten nowhere with this marina on this matter though, and I know that the mechanic knows what the problem is. They just want me to come crawling on hands on knees with a wad of dough. KT When I was having a similar problem, one of the old time mechanics at the marina said "not" to hesitate when shifting from forward to reverse, when the rpm is at a reasonably slow amount. Now I don't pause. It's one motion from forward to reverse, and I've had no more problems. Is your's a Mercruiser? Mine's a 1989. Bought it used, in good shape. The seller said that I should always briefly idle the stick before changing into forward or reverse because of the systems design. I know that cumulative engine vibration tends to gradually knock the idle screw and fuel mixture out of sync causing a rough engine that has to be fine tuned from time to time. Pop the hood, adjust, done. I think these same vibrations have affected a setting in the 3-part throttle linkage and all that's required is a simple readjustment. The throttle lever has a fairly sluggish resistance. It's not easy to finesse it through idle into forward or reverse without causing a lurch in one direction even at zero knot. KT |
#4
posted to rec.boats
|
|||
|
|||
Quicksilver shift cable engine cutout dilemma
"Kilgore Trout" wrote in message ... "JohnH" wrote in message ... On Sun, 19 Nov 2006 11:53:44 -0500, "Kilgore Trout" wrote: This topic may have been done to death already, apologies for this repeat. I've got a Mercruiser 130hp carburated 4.0L 4-cyl inboard with the Quicksilver shift cable system. When switching between forward and reverse the shifter is supposed to be stopped in idle for a brief moment before changing intp gear. Every so often when I do this the engine cuts right out as the shifter goes into idle. This happens when docking or embarking, often after a 10m lake haul, causing a mad scramble to restart the engine and avoid collision with docks, shorelines and other boats. Except the only way to prevent further stalls is to ram the shifter through the idle without stopping, and not good for the drive. I know that the shift system intentionally cuts the ignition spark for a millisecond to protect the cables and drive gears from damage by a cutout switch on the switch plate, and that there's a lower cable to the sterndrive and another between the shift box and shift plate. I don't know if I should pull the tools and try to fine tune the settings and risk overlooking a critical tweak, discovery this fact floating toward a parked Glastron at 10 knots, or take it to the marina? I've gotten nowhere with this marina on this matter though, and I know that the mechanic knows what the problem is. They just want me to come crawling on hands on knees with a wad of dough. KT When I was having a similar problem, one of the old time mechanics at the marina said "not" to hesitate when shifting from forward to reverse, when the rpm is at a reasonably slow amount. Now I don't pause. It's one motion from forward to reverse, and I've had no more problems. Is your's a Mercruiser? Mine's a 1989. Bought it used, in good shape. The seller said that I should always briefly idle the stick before changing into forward or reverse because of the systems design. I know that cumulative engine vibration tends to gradually knock the idle screw and fuel mixture out of sync causing a rough engine that has to be fine tuned from time to time. Pop the hood, adjust, done. I think these same vibrations have affected a setting in the 3-part throttle linkage and all that's required is a simple readjustment. The throttle lever has a fairly sluggish resistance. It's not easy to finesse it through idle into forward or reverse without causing a lurch in one direction even at zero knot. KT Please have someone who knows what they are doing repair your lower shift cable and linkages. Jim |
#5
posted to rec.boats
|
|||
|
|||
Quicksilver shift cable engine cutout dilemma
On Sun, 19 Nov 2006 19:30:31 GMT, "Jim" wrote:
"Kilgore Trout" wrote in message ... "JohnH" wrote in message ... On Sun, 19 Nov 2006 11:53:44 -0500, "Kilgore Trout" wrote: This topic may have been done to death already, apologies for this repeat. I've got a Mercruiser 130hp carburated 4.0L 4-cyl inboard with the Quicksilver shift cable system. When switching between forward and reverse the shifter is supposed to be stopped in idle for a brief moment before changing intp gear. Every so often when I do this the engine cuts right out as the shifter goes into idle. This happens when docking or embarking, often after a 10m lake haul, causing a mad scramble to restart the engine and avoid collision with docks, shorelines and other boats. Except the only way to prevent further stalls is to ram the shifter through the idle without stopping, and not good for the drive. I know that the shift system intentionally cuts the ignition spark for a millisecond to protect the cables and drive gears from damage by a cutout switch on the switch plate, and that there's a lower cable to the sterndrive and another between the shift box and shift plate. I don't know if I should pull the tools and try to fine tune the settings and risk overlooking a critical tweak, discovery this fact floating toward a parked Glastron at 10 knots, or take it to the marina? I've gotten nowhere with this marina on this matter though, and I know that the mechanic knows what the problem is. They just want me to come crawling on hands on knees with a wad of dough. KT When I was having a similar problem, one of the old time mechanics at the marina said "not" to hesitate when shifting from forward to reverse, when the rpm is at a reasonably slow amount. Now I don't pause. It's one motion from forward to reverse, and I've had no more problems. Is your's a Mercruiser? Mine's a 1989. Bought it used, in good shape. The seller said that I should always briefly idle the stick before changing into forward or reverse because of the systems design. I know that cumulative engine vibration tends to gradually knock the idle screw and fuel mixture out of sync causing a rough engine that has to be fine tuned from time to time. Pop the hood, adjust, done. I think these same vibrations have affected a setting in the 3-part throttle linkage and all that's required is a simple readjustment. The throttle lever has a fairly sluggish resistance. It's not easy to finesse it through idle into forward or reverse without causing a lurch in one direction even at zero knot. KT Please have someone who knows what they are doing repair your lower shift cable and linkages. Jim Sounds like some good advice to me! |
#6
posted to rec.boats
|
|||
|
|||
Quicksilver shift cable engine cutout dilemma
On Sun, 19 Nov 2006 13:39:45 -0500, "Kilgore Trout"
wrote: "JohnH" wrote in message .. . On Sun, 19 Nov 2006 11:53:44 -0500, "Kilgore Trout" wrote: This topic may have been done to death already, apologies for this repeat. I've got a Mercruiser 130hp carburated 4.0L 4-cyl inboard with the Quicksilver shift cable system. When switching between forward and reverse the shifter is supposed to be stopped in idle for a brief moment before changing intp gear. Every so often when I do this the engine cuts right out as the shifter goes into idle. This happens when docking or embarking, often after a 10m lake haul, causing a mad scramble to restart the engine and avoid collision with docks, shorelines and other boats. Except the only way to prevent further stalls is to ram the shifter through the idle without stopping, and not good for the drive. I know that the shift system intentionally cuts the ignition spark for a millisecond to protect the cables and drive gears from damage by a cutout switch on the switch plate, and that there's a lower cable to the sterndrive and another between the shift box and shift plate. I don't know if I should pull the tools and try to fine tune the settings and risk overlooking a critical tweak, discovery this fact floating toward a parked Glastron at 10 knots, or take it to the marina? I've gotten nowhere with this marina on this matter though, and I know that the mechanic knows what the problem is. They just want me to come crawling on hands on knees with a wad of dough. KT When I was having a similar problem, one of the old time mechanics at the marina said "not" to hesitate when shifting from forward to reverse, when the rpm is at a reasonably slow amount. Now I don't pause. It's one motion from forward to reverse, and I've had no more problems. Is your's a Mercruiser? Mine's a 1989. Bought it used, in good shape. The seller said that I should always briefly idle the stick before changing into forward or reverse because of the systems design. I know that cumulative engine vibration tends to gradually knock the idle screw and fuel mixture out of sync causing a rough engine that has to be fine tuned from time to time. Pop the hood, adjust, done. I think these same vibrations have affected a setting in the 3-part throttle linkage and all that's required is a simple readjustment. The throttle lever has a fairly sluggish resistance. It's not easy to finesse it through idle into forward or reverse without causing a lurch in one direction even at zero knot. KT Yes, mine's a Mercruiser with an Alpha 1 outdrive, but it's a 1997. Maybe times have changed. |
#7
posted to rec.boats
|
|||
|
|||
Quicksilver shift cable engine cutout dilemma
All alphas use a shift interrupt switch, no matter what the year.
One thing to make sure is that the shift cable is routed so it does not have any sharp turns in it. Also the shift cable housing can not be tied tight with wire ties or anything else along the route. The only hard fastening points for the housing are at the ends. It has to be able to slide forward and back a little. It can be held in place loosely with wire ties. It is the tension in the shift cable housing that activates the interrupt switch. Alphas do not want to come out of gear as long as the engine is "pushing" the drive. So as you pull on the shifter the cable housing moves in the opposite direction. Once enough tension has been applied to the cable housing it activates the interrupt switch. That stalls the motor momentarily and then it can come out of gear. This also releases the tension on the cable housing and releases the switch allowing the motor to catch before it stalls completely. All this happens on that black shifter plate where the main shift cable connects to the smaller shift cable that goes to the outdrive. The service manual has an adjustment procedure that if followed produces satsfactory results. But first make sure you have no issues with the cable. It's a waste of time to adjust it when there are cable problems. It is a bit of a rube goldburg set up but when installed and adjusted correctly it does work. JohnH wrote: On Sun, 19 Nov 2006 13:39:45 -0500, "Kilgore Trout" wrote: "JohnH" wrote in message .. . On Sun, 19 Nov 2006 11:53:44 -0500, "Kilgore Trout" wrote: This topic may have been done to death already, apologies for this repeat. I've got a Mercruiser 130hp carburated 4.0L 4-cyl inboard with the Quicksilver shift cable system. When switching between forward and reverse the shifter is supposed to be stopped in idle for a brief moment before changing intp gear. Every so often when I do this the engine cuts right out as the shifter goes into idle. This happens when docking or embarking, often after a 10m lake haul, causing a mad scramble to restart the engine and avoid collision with docks, shorelines and other boats. Except the only way to prevent further stalls is to ram the shifter through the idle without stopping, and not good for the drive. I know that the shift system intentionally cuts the ignition spark for a millisecond to protect the cables and drive gears from damage by a cutout switch on the switch plate, and that there's a lower cable to the sterndrive and another between the shift box and shift plate. I don't know if I should pull the tools and try to fine tune the settings and risk overlooking a critical tweak, discovery this fact floating toward a parked Glastron at 10 knots, or take it to the marina? I've gotten nowhere with this marina on this matter though, and I know that the mechanic knows what the problem is. They just want me to come crawling on hands on knees with a wad of dough. KT When I was having a similar problem, one of the old time mechanics at the marina said "not" to hesitate when shifting from forward to reverse, when the rpm is at a reasonably slow amount. Now I don't pause. It's one motion from forward to reverse, and I've had no more problems. Is your's a Mercruiser? Mine's a 1989. Bought it used, in good shape. The seller said that I should always briefly idle the stick before changing into forward or reverse because of the systems design. I know that cumulative engine vibration tends to gradually knock the idle screw and fuel mixture out of sync causing a rough engine that has to be fine tuned from time to time. Pop the hood, adjust, done. I think these same vibrations have affected a setting in the 3-part throttle linkage and all that's required is a simple readjustment. The throttle lever has a fairly sluggish resistance. It's not easy to finesse it through idle into forward or reverse without causing a lurch in one direction even at zero knot. KT Yes, mine's a Mercruiser with an Alpha 1 outdrive, but it's a 1997. Maybe times have changed. |
#8
posted to rec.boats
|
|||
|
|||
Quicksilver shift cable engine cutout dilemma
Ouch, do you shift you car/truck the same way?
|
#9
posted to rec.boats
|
|||
|
|||
Quicksilver shift cable engine cutout dilemma
"Kilgore Trout" wrote in message ... This topic may have been done to death already, apologies for this repeat. I've got a Mercruiser 130hp carburated 4.0L 4-cyl inboard with the Quicksilver shift cable system. When switching between forward and reverse the shifter is supposed to be stopped in idle for a brief moment before changing intp gear. Every so often when I do this the engine cuts right out as the shifter goes into idle. This happens when docking or embarking, often after a 10m lake haul, causing a mad scramble to restart the engine and avoid collision with docks, shorelines and other boats. Except the only way to prevent further stalls is to ram the shifter through the idle without stopping, and not good for the drive. I know that the shift system intentionally cuts the ignition spark for a millisecond to protect the cables and drive gears from damage by a cutout switch on the switch plate, and that there's a lower cable to the sterndrive and another between the shift box and shift plate. I don't know if I should pull the tools and try to fine tune the settings and risk overlooking a critical tweak, discovery this fact floating toward a parked Glastron at 10 knots, or take it to the marina? I've gotten nowhere with this marina on this matter though, and I know that the mechanic knows what the problem is. They just want me to come crawling on hands on knees with a wad of dough. KT Spend a few hundred to eliminate the liability issues you would have to deal with if you crash into another boat and cause personal injury, because of a missed shift. Jim |
#10
posted to rec.boats
|
|||
|
|||
Quicksilver shift cable engine cutout dilemma
"Jim" wrote in message news "Kilgore Trout" wrote in message ... I've gotten nowhere with this marina on this matter though, and I know that the mechanic knows what the problem is. They just want me to come crawling on hands on knees with a wad of dough. KT Spend a few hundred to eliminate the liability issues you would have to deal with if you crash into another boat and cause personal injury, because of a missed shift. Jim Some people crack me up. I knew a guy years ago who got the bright idea to build his own block ice freezer for his boat. He worked on this project at work where he bugged the bananas out of the subcontract refrigeration guy that used to charge up some of the subsystems that we built. The block ice guy basically got the contractor to supply parts (free), calculate the coil length for the compressor (came from a '75 Chevy Impala - free) and overall give the inventor free help. Although it initially worked, the block ice maker died for some unknown reason and the owner complained for months about how the refrigeration contractor was a " bum" and "incompetent". Turns out the coil had a leak in one of the silver soldered joints ... that the boat owner had built. The same guy came to me one day with, believe it or not, a 6 volt hotplate that he dug out of his pile of junk someplace. It must have been built in the '40's or earlier. He wanted me to design and build a voltage divider so he could run it on his 12 volt boat battery. Remembering the well intentioned refrigeration guy, I told him to take a hike. You get what you pay for. Eisboch |
Reply |
|
Thread Tools | Search this Thread |
Display Modes | |
|
|
Similar Threads | ||||
Thread | Forum | |||
more diesel power | Cruising | |||
OB Motor steering question | General | |||
Shift cable and kill switch adjusting | General | |||
alpha drive shift cable replacement | General | |||
Fuel transfer/polishing pump | Cruising |