Mercury outboards are known for their reliability and performance. However, like any other outboard motor, they are not immune to gear problems. The most common gear problem with Mercury outboards is stripped gears. This can happen for a number of reasons, but the most common cause is improper shifting.
Problems in gear shifting can be caused by a number of things, including worn shift cables, damaged shifter drums, or improper adjustment of the shifter. Any of these problems can cause the gears to slip, which will eventually lead to stripped gears.
The drop shaft is responsible for shifting in reverse and forward gears. It is located at the back of the gearcase, just below the drive shaft. The drop shaft has a lifelong grease lubricant that can eventually break down, causing the reverse and low gears to slip.
Let us now look into the details of each of the above-mentioned gear problems with Mercury outboards.
How do Gear Shifts work on Mercury Outboards?
For heavier boats, they use the command thurst, while most others use the standard gear case. The command thurst system is integrated into the engine and boat to optimize performance.
The forward gear is engaged when the drive shaft is turning clockwise, and the reverse gear is engaged when the drive shaft is turning counterclockwise. The forward gear is employed when the boat is moving in a forwarding direction, and the reverse gear is used when the boat has to move in a backward direction.
The drive shaft is connected to the crankshaft of the engine via a clutch. The clutch allows the engine to be disconnected from the drive shaft so that the engine can idle without turning the propeller.
Issues With DTS in Mercury Outboards
Mercury employs a DTS mechanism in some of its outboards. This is an electronic shift and throttle system that eliminates the need for cables. It uses sensors and actuators to provide shifting and throttle control.
DTS provides smoother, more precise control than traditional cable systems and is particularly well-suited for high-performance applications.
If you have a Mercury outboard with DTS, it’s important to keep the system well-maintained. Any problems with the sensors or actuators can cause shifting or throttle problems.
Calibration of the sensors and actuators is also important. If the system is not properly calibrated, it can cause shifting or throttle problems.
People quite often face connection issues with the DTS and the G3 software. Upgrading to the latest software can solve this problem.
Problems with Shifting Cables
Shifting or throttle cables that are damaged or worn can cause gear-shifting problems. The cables connect the shifter levers to the engine and are responsible for moving the throttle and shifting gears.
If the cables are damaged, they may not be able to move the throttle or shift gears properly. This can cause the engine to rev up without moving the boat forward, or it can cause the boat to move forward without shifting into the proper gear.
To check the condition of the cables, first, check for any visible damage. If there is no visible damage, try moving the throttle and shifter levers to see if they move smoothly. If they don’t move smoothly or if they get stuck, it’s likely that the cables need to be replaced.
Water in Gear Case
The gear case is filled with oil and is tightly water packed but quite often the exposed portion of the drive shaft can become corroded due to saltwater exposure.
If water has entered the gear case, it can cause a number of problems, including gears that slip or fail to engage properly. Water in the gear case can also cause the bearings to fail.
To check for water in the gear case, remove the oil fill cap and look for water or foam in the oil. If you see either of these, it’s a sign that water has entered the gear case and you’ll need to have it repaired as soon as possible.
Improperly Adjusted Shifter
If the shifter is not properly adjusted, it can cause problems with shifting gears. The shifter should be adjusted so that it is in the neutral position when the engine is idling.
If the shifter is not in the neutral position, it can cause the engine to rev up without moving the boat forward, or it can cause the boat to move forward without shifting into the proper gear.
Gear Tooth Comming Off
If a gear tooth comes off, it can cause the gear to slip or fail to engage properly. This can cause the engine to rev up without moving the boat forward, or it can cause the boat to move forward without shifting into the proper gear.
If you suspect that a gear tooth has come off, remove the oil fill cap and look for metal shavings in the oil. If you see metal shavings, it’s a sign that a gear tooth has come off and you’ll need to have it repaired as soon as possible.
You can hear a typical gear whine when the engine is idling in neutral and then you engage forward or reverse gears. This is especially prevalent when the cold starts the engine from a dead stop.
Oil Change every 100 Hours
You should change the oil in your gear case every 100 hours or sooner if it becomes contaminated with water. Water in the gear case can cause the bearings to fail.
To change the oil in the gear case, first, remove the oil fill cap and drain the old oil into a container. Then, remove the oil filter and replace it with a new one. Finally, add new oil to the gear case, being sure not to overfill it.
It’s also a good idea to check the condition of the drive shaft seals while you’re changing the oil. If the seals are damaged, they may need to be replaced.
Conclude:
If you’re having problems with the gears of your Mercury outboard, it’s important to troubleshoot the issue and identify the cause. In some cases, the problem may be as simple as a damaged or worn cable. In other cases, it may be something more serious, like water in the gear case. Whatever the problem is, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the engine.
Clifford Slater is a seasoned writer with over 25 years of experience in boats and fishing trips. With his extensive knowledge and expertise in boats and fishing, he has become a recognized authority in the industry. Clifford has made it a point to regularly visit popular fishing destinations such as Florida and other places in the USA to stay up to date with the latest trends and techniques in the field.
Over the years, Clifford has acquired a wealth of knowledge about boats and fishing, which he has shared through his writing. His articles and books are widely read by fishing enthusiasts and professionals alike, and his insights are highly valued by those seeking to improve their skills in the field. Clifford’s passion for boats and fishing is evident in his writing, and his readers appreciate the depth of his expertise and his ability to communicate complex topics in an engaging and accessible way.
Clifford Slater’s impressive credentials and dedication to his craft make him a trusted authority in the world of boats and fishing. His commitment to staying up to date with the latest developments in the industry, combined with his deep knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, ensures that his writing is always informative and valuable. For those seeking to improve their skills or simply enjoy the beauty of the sea, Clifford’s writing is a must-read.
