searay shifting issues

[Jdyers]

We own a Searay 240 sundeck 2001. For the second time now the linkage that shifts into forward, neutral, or reverse has become inoperable. in this instance the shift cable became disconnected where the linkage connects at the engine. The first time the same cable was replaced. Is this a common problem? anyone else experience this problem.

 

[BonBini]

I would not think this to be a common problem. Are you doing work yourself or paying a tech? ...Ron

 

[Redhook98]

Are you missing the cotter-pin that holds the linkage in place?

 

[Henry Boyd]

Which shift cable disconnected? The cable from the control to the engine, or the shorter cable from the engine to the drive? What was repaired and how long ago?

Henry

 

[Jdyers]

the first time around I paid a tech to accomplish the work, I have also arranged for the repair in the spring. The shorter cable from the engine to the drive is the issue? It was repaired summer of 2006.

 

[Jdyers]

Are you missing the cotter-pin that holds the linkage in place?

no the cotter pin is in place. I had to redo the set screws that hold the cable in the linkage but that is the result not the issue. shifting is still sometimes inoperable.

 

[Lazy Daze]

As stated above, it's not a common problem.

If there has been anyone shifting the drive while the engine is not running, that can very quickly cause this problem.

 

[BonBini]

As stated above, it's not a common problem.

If there has been anyone shifting the drive while the engine is not running, that can very quickly cause this problem.

Back in the day on tubs like mine there was a spring loaded ign cutout assembly where the upper and lower cable met. Are these newer fancy boats the same or is there some magic chip switch? Not trying to be a smart ass, just a topic related question. ...Ron

 

[Lazy Daze]

Back in the day on tubs like mine there was a spring loaded ign cutout assembly where the upper and lower cable met. Are these newer fancy boats the same or is there some magic chip switch? Not trying to be a smart ass, just a topic related question. ...Ron

The Alphas utilize a cut-out (now a micro-switch), but the Bravos do not as they have a different style of gear and also shift into and out of gear at different points.

However, the problem (in regards to the OP's question) comes from the way the shift cable attaches at the drive. I won't be the best at explaining the technical side of that, but Bravos should never be shifted when not in gear.

Apparently, the newer ones (last few years) can be. Also can be run at high tilt angles, depending on RPM (Smartcraft tells you when to stop). However, I still shy away from doing those things. Just doesn't feel right, 'ya know?

 

[Jdyers]

to my knowledge (and I am the main driver) it is never shifted when not running. what would be the point? (not being wise just makes no sense to do that!) I received a communication from Searay - they suspect corrosion on the cable but offered very minimal information beyond that.

 

[Lazy Daze]

not being wise just makes no sense to do that!

No worries, didn't think you were. It only takes once, so it could be anyone that was aboard.

But I can tell you that 90% of the people that I show a boat to in the showroom (not even in the water)... the first thing they do after sitting behind the wheel is put their right hand on the shifter and... yup... start to shift it. I don't completely understand it myself, but it happens A LOT.

 

[Jdyers]

I was just thinking about my replies - and saw the trees but not the forest! the problem i need to address is what is causing the stiffness in the shift which in turn causes the cable to become disconnected!