ba_50 asked this question on 5/24/2000:

Hi,

I have a 1979 5hp Mariner outboard that shifts smoothly into forward gear but grinds going into reverse. You can feel the resistance even when the motor isn't running. How do you fix it? Thanks. Bob Arganbright.

cetaylor gave this response on 5/24/2000:

This surely sounds like a linkage problem. I am assuming that this is a tiller model. If so, remove the cover and operate the shifting linkage. When you put it in reverse, note where the moving linkage is connected. Adjust this linkage, either longer or shorter and this should solve the problem. Don't move it much. About a half turn at a time. This is a very sensitive adjustment and shouldn't need much. Good luck....