Shift Cable Re-install

[1132MM]

I replaced all the bellows on my 2004 280 Sundancer 4.3L Alpha One Gen 2 outdrives. I used weed wackier trim line as a guide for the shift cable which I tied to inside the engine compartment, as seen on many YouTube videos. When I tried to re-install the shift cable through the shift cable bellow it goes in only a few inches and hits something and won’t go any further. Looking for some suggestions thanks.

 

[BillK2632]

It hits the exhaust pipe and or the coupler I think. You have to make sure the cable goes over the exhaust pipe and between the engine and the exhaust pipe, then it loops around to STB up to the top of the engine.

 

[1132MM]

Thanks! I will give it another try see if it gets through!

 

[scoflaw]

I install the bellows after the cable is routed

 

[1132MM]

I definitely should have did that. I using the old cable housing it’s still attached to the bell housing. It was in good shape so I didn’t replace it.

 

[scoflaw]

I definitely should have did that. I using the old cable housing it’s still attached to the bell housing. It was in good shape so I didn’t replace it.

Your kidding right? That's the part that wears on the inside

 

[1132MM]

No, I checked it looked fine. The old heat shield was the issue. I forgot to take it off when I pulled the shift cable through the transom. It became jammed in the pass through in the transom assembly. I was able to push it through with a small screw driver. Thanks for the replies.

 

[scoflaw]

The casing wears on the inside where you can't see it, if your happy that's all that matters

 

[techmitch]

No, I checked it looked fine. The old heat shield was the issue. I forgot to take it off when I pulled the shift cable through the transom. It became jammed in the pass through in the transom assembly. I was able to push it through with a small screw driver. Thanks for the replies.

You can't tell by looking at it. As @scoflaw said, they wear on the inside. Do it once/do it right.

 

[1132MM]

The previous owner had the shift cables done 5 years ago I have his receipts. Apparently the didn’t replace the bellows and slid it through the existing shift cable bellows so there’s no telling how old they are. Is 5 years old for a shift cable if so I’ll just replace them.

 

[scoflaw]

No they last longer than 5. replace when they act up or your in there for other issues

 

[1132MM]

Thanks!