I'm having problem with adjusting the lower unit shift cable for alpha one. I replace the outer & inner cable with no problem. The problem is I have the lower unit in full locked in forward gear and I can not get the brass piece to be 6" from center to center I can only get it to 6.5" b/c it at the end of the tread. So any info will help.

If u look at the pic I have expanded it a little better

Try this place http://forums.iboats.com/
Lot of Alpha guys over there.

You will need Service Manual #6 for the full instuctions. I'll check later, but I think you have to have the prop locked in gear spun counter clockwise on any Alpha when adjusting the cable length. On a std rotation Alpha, this is reverse gear. With both cables disconnected, you push in lightly on the shift cable to remove any slack while adjusting to the 6 inch length.

Make sure that when You screwed the brass fitting , that attaches the cable to the bell housing, You have no more than two threads exposed from the head of the fitting to the bell housing. Any more than two threads and You will not be able to achieve the required 6". The Mercruiser service manual said that is very impotant!
Lower cable disconected, push in on the end of the cable, while having someone turn the prop counterclockwise untill lock and maintain preasure in cc direction ( I use a bugie to hold preasure) adjust 6" length, put barrel in clip and guide on bolt and test shifter.