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1998 Johnson Oceanrunner 150 Won't Shift Into Reverse
Just repowered my 1973 Outrage 19 with a 1998 Johnson 150 Oceanrunner which will not shift into reverse. Was out on the water and it seemed to run a little rough in reverse for the few moments I was backing away from the ramp. All was well in forward, and it ran strong.
On the way back in, went to put it into reverse but it would not shift into reverse. Engine would continue to rev up if reverse throttle was increased, though.
Upon getting home, found broken shift control arm (made of plastic). Fabricated a steel replacement shift control arm, and installed it, but problem is still there. What's the diagnosis?
I am willing to bet the linkage broke when you were trying to force the motor into reverse. The reason it probably was not going into reverse is, I am going to bet, there is an issue with the trow out bearing/gear in your lower unit or your reverse ring gear has some issues like missing teeth or who knows what else. The only way to find out is to pull the gearcase off and open it up. You are looking at $1500 - $1700 for a complete overall of the lower unit if that is the case. I hope you got a warranty with the purchase of the motor.
