Having problem with drive, when shifting into gear foward the engine seems to rev up before it engage so when it goes into gear there is bang in the drive gears. the shift cable has been check and is ok. Do I need to check the clutch or anything else.

sounds like it be worthwhile checking throtle cable adjustment before the more expensive bit.

What kind of controls???, Single control or dual control (one for shifter & one for throttle)??? Cables out of adjustment or possibly stretched...

Single control Mercruiser Commander 3000 Side mount cable from drive mounts on a plate next to exhaust manifold and throttle cable mounts there to.

Your most likely cause is a stretched lower shift cable, causing you to have to move the shifter farther then need be to get the drive into gear. When you move it farther it starts to accelerate the motor. Check your cable for adjustment you may be able to adjust it enough to get you by for awhile, but it is definatly a telltale sign of a stretched cable.

Thanks Guys took a look at the cable and adjusted it problem went away. Would it be wise to change the cable in the near future.
Aloha from Hawaii

It may last awhile after the adjustment, but somewhere down the line it will probably need to be replaced...