Oh Boy! I've really done it this time

[tsaltz]

...and if anybody can offer me words of advice it would be greatly appreciated.

The Original Problem: Lack of forward thrust

The Solution: (After months of trying to adjust the forward gear) Cleaned fouled prop to prevent cavitation

The Current Problem: I backed off the adjusting collar too far. I think the pressure plate came off the spindle as it was able to spin freely apart from the shaft. I think I got it back on but my shifting lever isn't moving much back or forth. I am working in a very tight space (Catalina 30 under the sink cabinet). Can anyone suggest a remedy:confused:

[Don Moyer]

Tsaltz,

Sorry to hear that you have been fighting this problem for so long. If you have a copy of our MMI Service and Overhaul Manual, you can refer to Chapter 6 for a detailed explanation (with pictures) of how this assembly works, which may help you in understanding the following explanation.

My guess is that the adjusting collar is set way too tight at this point, which would explain the limited travel of your shifting lever. I suggest you take a mirror (if necessary) and observe the motion of the operating cone while someone moves the shifting lever back and forth in the cockpit. If, while using normal force on the shifting lever in the forward direction, the operating cone could not be pulled very far within the three forward clutch fingers, it would confirm that the adjusting collar is set too tight.

The next step would be to loosen the adjusting collar (counterclockwise direction as you would be observing the assembly from the rear) one notch at a time until you can observe the operating cone being pulled through the three clutch fingers until they drop into the forward detent at the front of the cone.

Don

[sastanley]

Tsaltz,

I have a Catalina 30 and realized that if you remove the sink assembly, you can get amazing access to this area. There are only about 6 screws (if you can find them all.) The one I missed was mid-way on the forward side (in the middle of the dinette seat, under the inboard sink) - There is also one on the aft side here too.

Matters get complicated if you have hot/cold pressure water, etc, salt water pump,etc. and then there are more hoses.

I found that when I removed mine the counter top was rotten which added to my project list. The counter top will slide straight out once you've removed all the large sheet metal screws holding it to the boat.

I fully intend to check my reversing gear operation (an area I have not touched yet) before I reinstall the counter top so I can see what is happening with a clear view, so if I have to troubleshoot later on (with the counter in place) I'll have an idea what's happening in the dark hole of the reversing gear assembly.

[tsaltz]

Don and Sastanley,
You words were spot on. My adjustment was too tight and that cabinet was in the way. I removed the cabinet as Sastanley suggested and was able to clearly see what was going on. It was amazing how quickly I was able to adjust the assembly to an optimum position. With a freshly cleaned prop I have regained my forward propulsion. Thanks! Now I have to get that cabinet back in.

[sastanley]

tsaltz,

I haven't attempted to re-install mine yet either. I have replaced the counter top and reassembled the unit in the garage, but wanted to get the motor running (while the boat is still on land) and then investigate/adjust the reversing gear while I had good access.

If/when I am successful, I'll provide some feedback.

[Stoffel]

I think my forward gear is slipping, and the thread from you guys is most helpful. thanks.