I have a 1989 Scarab w/ single engine (350).

It will not shift into FWD like it is supposed to, and I need help troubleshooting.

Here's what I know:
1. When I push the shifter into the FWD position it doesn't engage the FWD gear.
2. I have to lift the hatch and push the shift mechanism manually into gear. When in gear...it works great.
3. The cable isn't broken - because when I push the shift handle forward it DOES pull the shift mechanism under the hatch...just doesn't pull it all the way into gear properly. I only have to "tap" it to get it to engage.
4. I think the cable is stretched - CAN IT BE adjusted?

I tried to adjust it under the hatch, but it didn't seem to do any good.

Is there an adjustment under the shift handle at the controls?

For the record...it goes into Reverse just fine.

It can be adjusted at the shifter or where the cable connects at the engine bracket. Both ends of the cable are adjustable.

Its possible that the shifter cable or lower cable to the drive is sticking and bad. Its also possible that the cone clutch in the drive is getting bad.

The only reason I am leaning towards the cable is because when I open the hatch and operate the shifter...I can see the bracket under the hatch moving fine, it goes into reverse just fine, but when putting in fwd gear it just doesn't pull that bracket closed enough to engage. I push it another 1/4" (maybe less) and it engages perfectly.

I think this is the original cable from the looks of it...so I'm just hoping 20 years of shifting has finally taken it's toll on the cable and it needs adjusting or worst case...replacing.

http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/g...djustment.html

Theres A Fine Line On The Adjustment . Make Small Changes .

I got it - it was the cable and it was pretty easy to adjust once I figured out it was the barrel that I needed to adjust...not the actual "cable" itself.

Took me about 4-5 turns to get it set where I wanted it. Now it shifts great (in the driveway at least). Will have it out for a sea-trial on Saturday.