Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	CAT BOAT: got a Merc 220 control problem
Date:	5/14/2017 9:06:44 AM

220 HP Merc OB, Control problem:

Getting my boat ready for summer, I started up my motor.  Runs fine.  No problem with operator control when gunning engine in neutral.  

Problem:  Control will not come out of neutral position to engage prop.  (Yes, the grip squeeze is engaged.)  

What could be the problem? 

R.Farrior, Dead Timbers Bay, Lake Martin

Name:	CAT BOAT -	Reply
Subject:	CAT BOAT: got a Merc 220 control problem
Date:	5/14/2017 9:43:27 AM

Did you mean to type 220?  As in inboard/outboard engine?  Or, model # 220 control box?

Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	CAT BOAT: got a Merc 220 control problem
Date:	5/14/2017 10:00:18 AM

Sorry, I mis-typed.  The engine is a 225 HP Merc OB on a 22' Whitley cuddy.  You serviced it for me a couple years ago at your shop.

The control is a MPC 4000 Gen II.   The neutral lock bar can be squeezed, but the engine won't come out of neutral.  Throttle only button works as designed. 

When attempting to take out of neutral, slight movements of the control can be felt at the engine (cowl removed).  Manually spinning the prop does not fix the problem. 

All was fine at end of season last year.

Name:	CAT BOAT -	Reply
Subject:	CAT BOAT: got a Merc 220 control problem
Date:	5/14/2017 12:51:08 PM

Indeed, I do remember that boat.  How has she been running?  It appears that you current problem  is a seized up (from sitting all winter) shift cable.  From what I read into what you write, sounds as if the throttle cable is fine.  If you can, unhook the shift cable under the cowl and see if you can shift it manually (with out the remote lever).  If you can, then you need to replace the shift cable.  DO NOT PULL IT OUT WITHOUT ATTACHING A STRONG STRING TO ONE END SO THAT YOU CAN PULL THE NEW ONE THROUGH THE HULL.  If you dont do that, you will say many bad words when you try to put the new on in. 

Name:	CAT BOAT -	Reply
Subject:	CAT BOAT: got a Merc 220 control problem
Date:	5/14/2017 4:42:21 PM

And, do that while running on the hose pipe.  NOT in the water, cause you may get wet.  LOL.

Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	CAT BOAT: got a Merc 220 control problem
Date:	2/15/2018 11:56:27 AM

Catboat, I'd bring the boat to you, but I was told my rusty trailer (from its saltwater life) is no longer safe.  

Don't trust myself to correct the problem. Can you recommend anyone in the Blue Creek area to look at my control problem.  Needs to be fixed for the coming summer.

Thanks