Expert: Jeff Grigg - 1/7/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have a 1987 Mariner 30 hp tiller and just change the waterpump.  My problem is the shift shaft connection in the foot.  It worked fine before I dropped the foot, but I had it in gear when dropped.  I was attempting to get it out of gear and believe it broke or disconnected.  I don't have a manual and can not find anything online with a good picture of the foot and the shift shaft connection.  Is it a difficult job to check the lower connection and how would I get to it?  Thanks for your time.

ANSWER: Mercury has an online parts book at www.mercurypartsexpress.com You can get a good idea of the linkage there.
Drop the lower unit, shift it into neutral, shift the motor into neutral. Now put the lower back up indexing the shift shafts and water tube.
Post back if you need more help.
Jeff

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Jeff,
Thanks for the reply.  When the lower unit is dropped, that is when I cannot shift the shift shaft.  I can shift the upper lever on the motor to F-N-R.  It almost feels as if its disconnected in the foot, but there is a boot that covers the shaft going down.  If it did break or become disconnected, how to I get to it to check it out or fix it?  Thanks for your time.
Ricky

Answer
Ricky, you will need to disassemble the lower unit. It is a job better left to your local shop. You could buy a good service manual, I would recommend the OEM manual for any gearcase repairs. You will also need special tools.
That's why it would be easier and cheaper in the long run to have it done.
Jeff