Having problems getting the position control lever in neutral

[Painkiller]

On my 2001 Sundancer 310, sometimes I cant find the neutral position on my shift levers when trying to start the engines twin 5.7 L EFI. A buddy of mine told me it could be a switch? I have never adjusted any cables or the shift detents? Could it be either of those?

 

[Tonka Boater]

Your throttle control should click into place in 3 positions -- neutral, roughly 10% forward throttle and same for reverse throttle. These clicks are called detents. It's unlikely but a previous owner may have removed them -- hopefully not the case because it can be dangerous. You can purchase a new throttle control assembly relatively inexpensively.

 

[SCORPIO]

Sounds like the neutral start safety switch is having a problem. If you have to hunt for a spot where she will crank, my money is on that switch. Get a manual and determine where it is located. You can test it with an ohm meter.

 

[Painkiller]

thanks for the quick replies. I got the manual and will check it out

 

[jason78]

I'm with Tonka, I think this is an issue with detent adjustment. I have the manual for the shifter mechanism that I suspect you probably have on that boat. It will show you how to adjust the detent. If you want to PM me your email address, I'll email you the pdf.

 

[Painkiller]

Adjusted detents as well as tightened the base to the dashboard and tightened the levers. The general tighten up seems to have corrected problem but will need more time to verify. Thanks.

 

[radiojon]

I'm having a little trouble with getting my shifters to find the neutral "click". They also have a bit of different tension strengths between port and starboard, forward and reverse. From what I read, there are adjustments that can be done on the shifters in the cockpit for this (instead of down in the engine room). But how does the cover come off the shifter box? Does it "pop" off or are there hidden screws somewhere?

- Mark