Reply To: 54 evinrude 25hp shifting

[Don]

OK, I’m guessing you have the shift rod linkage improperly connected, although I’m not really familiar with how it connects on that engine.  There is also a very fine linkage adjustment on the shift handle that may have to be adjusted as well.  (At least I think there is, but perhaps not on this older model).  One thing is for sure, please make sure the shift system is adjusted properly, or else you will create shifting problems that will result in clutch dog/gear lug wear.

Did you have this gearcase all apart?  If so, you may want to remove it again (don’t disassemble it), to check shifting.