Thornton69
Well-Known Member
- Sep 15, 2014
- 1,149
- Boat Info
- 1981 245 SDC
2021 Solar 420
- Engines
- '97 5.7 Bravo 2
'20 Merc 25 EFI Jet
Have a 1996 B2 which developed an issue with getting locked in forward after a long cruise. Initially broke the helm cable trying to get it back to neutral. Didn't see any problems with it but replaced the lower shift cable while at it. Problem was not corrected and immediately returned after a 30 min cruise. Could also feel a slight pulse in the shift lever while trying to return to neutral. Tore into the upper and found one of the clutch springs badly warn and marks indicating it may have been caught in the bite of the shift collar. Shift fork was also damaged from fighting with it. Went to order some pieces for it and found bulletin 2001-17. Apparently Merc decided to supersede the parts in all the prior Bravo's to match the 2000 and later internals. All gears, bearings, clutch and shift assembly have to be replaced. Other than the springs and fork, these look great. Looking like I may have to spend $3000 in parts if I cant come up with the $200 worth it really needs. Never heard about this bulletin before so thought I would share it. If anyone is familiar with it, I am wondering if the springs and fork are the same if ordered for the later units?
http://mercruiserparts.com/bulletins/001/04//2001/EN_17.PDF
http://mercruiserparts.com/bulletins/001/04//2001/EN_17.PDF