Help-forward control chooses reverse OMC Stringer 3.8

Discussion in 'Sterndrives' started by rosbullterrier, Feb 19, 2012.

  1. rosbullterrier
    Joined: Feb 2005
    Posts: 83
    Likes: 2, Points: 8, Legacy Rep: 21
    Location: Cornwall, UK

    rosbullterrier Junior Member

    I have finished the rebuild and installation of x2 Stringer 3.8 OMC's (1981) - everything in working order.
    However, the starboard helm remote lever pushed forward engages reverse instead of forward and when pushed back it engages forwards - bit awkward for lining up the two throttle controls to propel in the same direction and I am getting desperate.
    After much thought, I can't see how altering the helm control lever or the cables/idler pulley in the shift converter housing would change the direction of pull.
    However after looking at the service manual pictures of the shift housing in the gearbox, I don't really see how that could have been installed wrongly either. The cable end pucks are different sizes and so not interchangable. I don't want to lift the boat from the water and dismantle the outdrive if that could not be the problem . . .
     
  2. gonzo
    Joined: Aug 2002
    Posts: 16,790
    Likes: 1,714, Points: 123, Legacy Rep: 2031
    Location: Milwaukee, WI

    gonzo Senior Member

    Is the propeller the right turn?
     
  3. rosbullterrier
    Joined: Feb 2005
    Posts: 83
    Likes: 2, Points: 8, Legacy Rep: 21
    Location: Cornwall, UK

    rosbullterrier Junior Member

    No sir - this is the old Stringer OMC setup with both right hand props, compensated, I hope, by trim tabs at the rear of the anti ventilation plate.

    I have been told there might be a difference between the gearchange setups; it is a 1981 boat but the port box could be a 1983/4. This side has an external anode in the gearcase.
    The earlier gearbox has a oil pump assisted shift mechanism whereas the later box has a more straightforword push/ pull setup.
    Now, there has been a suggestion that one or the other system creates a reversal of the cable action.
    This is where I am dumbfounded. Whether the shift converter housings have been wrongly swopped around? There is nothing in the book discussing this possible problem.
    Andy

    I know you chaps would happily only use the Stringer system for anchorage weights, but in the UK I'm a bit stuck for choice. (horrendous diesel equivalent, price petrol, etc)
     
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