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Boat Repair/motor jumps out of gear

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Expert: Jeff Grigg - 1/13/2008


Question
Ihave a1978 35 hp evnrude motor on a 16ft lowes boat some times wyle running it will jump out of geag i took it to three different shops they took it apart an said they found no problem inside but the cavitation plate is 2in below the hull an that would cause the problem   please help thanks

Answer
The motor height may cause handling problems but not the jumping out of gear.
You probably have a worn clutch dog and or forward gear. Those units were bad for that very thing. It is due to the design of the forward bearing. The gears and clutch must be perfect with no slop in the system.
Have another shop, one with an OMC certified technician, look at it.
Jeff

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Jeff Grigg

Expertise

Can help with most any question related to outboards, high performance, hull repair, rigging, if it floats and uses a motor. From a 9.9 on a aluminum boat to DFI two strokes. Outboard motors are my specialty. I can help with some I/O questions as well. Ratings are the only way we know if we are helping. If you are pleased with the help, please rate us. 20% don't bother reading my answers! If you are not going to read the follow up then why ask? Keep in mind we do this at no charge and are not paid. We do it to help you!

Experience

32 years in the marine business. Own a service facility, in coastal South Carolina certified Master Tech by Johnson/Evinrude, certified Mercury/Force, Tohatsu/Nissan. Former technical director for DMI Pistons. 30 year racing career including 3 APBA Formula V National Championships

Organizations
AMTECH, APBA

Publications Written For
Boat & Motor Dealer, Car Classics, Custom Vans (tech articles), Miami News, powerboat racing column

Awards and Honors
Certified Master Technician Johnson/Evinrude

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