Intermediate Shift cable 1999 226 454 merc B3

[Philgconnors]

Was out on the lake yesterday and my boat was having issues shifting into gear. Could shift into reverse easily, however, shifting into forward was a challenge. This became progressively worse throughout the day. Finally decided to head back and get it out of the water to inspect further. When I got back to the dock, the throttle was stuck in gear and would not shift (seized). After investigating, I found the shift cable from the shift plate to the outdrive was frozen.

Of course there isn’t a boat mechanic available until October. I’m very mechanically inclined and have all the tools to do a job like this, however, I have zero experience Taking apart a bravo 3. Do you all think it would be wise to tackle this myself, or should I wait for a pro with experience to work on it. Any pointers?

Thanks guys.

[akorcovelos]

If you’re mechanically inclined it only needs basic hand tools, minus the shift cable adjustment tools. I say go for it, you’ll certainly be done before October. It is a ‘while you’re in there’ job so plan on replacing all the bellows, And inspect u-joints.


https://www.sterndrives.com/replace_bra ... cable.html

[Philgconnors]

It was not the shift cable. Apparently, the upper drive gears seized up and the lower unit shaft is twisted. I haven’t hit anything in the water recently, so no idea if this was ongoing from when I bought the boat. The mechanic is recommending that I replace the drive rather than have it rebuilt. Any thoughts on how to proceed? Thanks guys.

[Big Block Power]

Yea that's a new or used unit time.

[Holy Smokes]

I think you DID hit a submerged object...... insurance claim?

New drives are ~$8k plus install. I'd think you could rebuild for 50% or less than that.

https://nuwavemarine.com/new-oem-mercur ... s8EALw_wcB

[Philgconnors]

I’ve been researching remanded bravo 3 and got a recommendation from a supply house to use this product. https://powerboatlimited.com/product/merc-bravo-3/ Seems a little to good to be true for the price considering other units are $7k plus. Have you all had any experience with this?

https://powerboatlimited.com/product/merc-bravo-3/

[Philgconnors]

I ordered a new OEM outdrive. I’m wondering if I need to change the gimbal bearing or anything else in the transom before installing the new drive.

[akorcovelos]

I ordered a new OEM outdrive. I’m wondering if I need to change the gimbal bearing or anything else in the transom before installing the new drive.

Absolutely. You hanging an expensive new drive on you better replace everything you can while it’s off.

[Philgconnors]

What other items would you recommend I replace. Boat only has 360 hours so not quite sure what needs to be done. Thanks.

[akorcovelos]

All the bellows, inspect gimble bearing and u-joints, trim sender and limit switch, and check engine alignment.

[dustinm]

All the bellows, inspect gimble bearing and u-joints, trim sender and limit switch, and check engine alignment.

I agree. The age of the boat is the factor here not the hours.