Having Trouble with Mercruiser Control Lever

[Rock Hall]

I've got an older Alpha 1 Gen 1 drive. I'm having a problem with the shift lever coming completely off the control. it seems this just has a friction fit on a flange in the box. is this correct? if you push on it when you move it, it's fine. or if I remember to keep making sure it's pushed on tight, it's ok. but often when docking or maneuvering, I might tend to pull on it and thats when it comes off the fitting. is my lever missing something that is supposed to hold it tight? I have scoured the repair manuals and the internet and this doesnt seem to be a common problem. can anyone tell me why it is happening to me?
Thanks

 

[capz]

Any idea what model controller you have? If it's a Commander 3000, it sounds like the screw underneath the throttle only button came loose. That's the only hardware that holds the handle onto the control box. Not sure what year they started using that design though.

 

[Rock Hall]

I'm not sure. it might be a variation of the 3000. looks a little different, but there was another suggestion about a screw at the bottom of the lever. I am going to check it out this weekend and hopefully that is the problem.
Thanks!

 

[capz]

The screw at the bottom is only for handle tension. If it's coming "completely off" then it's the screw under the middle throttle only button. To access it, push in the middle button. Put throttle all the way forward (might be all the way in reverse for your model, try both ways). The button can now be pulled out. The easiest way to do this is with a suction cup. You can also us wide needle nose pliers or fishing pliers around the edges. Use an 11/16 socket with a short extension for the screw. The screw also needs red or blue loctite. You don't need to torque it down hard. If I remember right it calls for torque in inch lbs. Good luck.

 

[Rock Hall]

I went digging and actually found the installation manual for the control. It is a QuickSilver 88150A7. It appears that there is a set screw on the bottom of the lever. I need to get the control and the book in front of me. I'll take a look and give it a try this weekend.
Thanks for the help and I'll post my results to the thread.
Mark

 

[Rock Hall]

Capz,
There was a set screw on the bottom of the lever. I made it real tight and it is working great. I will have to keep after it and tighten it once a month.
Thanks for your help.
Mark

 

[capz]

Great to hear. Quick and easy is always a good thing, especially this time of year.