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Engine stuck in reverse

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by Brian G, Jun 28, 2021.

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  1. Brian G, Jun 28, 2021
    #1
    Brian G

    Brian G Member

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    I have a CAT 3412e engine with a Morse KE4 controller. While backing up, the STB engine got stuck in reverse. Moving the throttle to the forward position and giving it some fuel just made the boat go faster in reverse. The engine will still start but immediately goes into reverse without touching the throttle. The port engine still works fine.

    Is the main issue with the helm station, the engine, or the ZF transmission? Thanks in advance for any suggestions or guidance.
  2. DOCKMASTER, Jun 28, 2021
    #2
    DOCKMASTER

    DOCKMASTER Senior Member

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    Can't be the engine, it does nothing related to reverse. It has to be the control or the ZF Trans. Almost certainly the controls or shift servo in your trans. What have you done to try to isolate and figure it out? Do you get any warning lights on your controls? When you say Morse KE4, is this cable controlled? Maybe just a busted cable or cable came loose at trans?
  3. mapism, Jun 28, 2021
    #3
    mapism

    mapism Senior Member

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    I believe they are actually electronic controls from Teleflex Marine.
    Of which BTW I must have the installation/operating instructions, if that might be of any interest to the OP.
    But as with any electronic control, I think he will have to involve a specific technician anyway.

    The only easy check, if the gearboxes are actually controlled through cable actuators in the e/room, is whether the lever on the gearbox is moved either side of neutral upon helm lever movement.
    If yes, the problem is with the gearbox, and there's nothing wrong with the control lever.
    If no (which I think is more likely), some electronic components - which could be either the lever or the e/r blackbox - is faulty.

    PS: I agree that the engine can't be the culprit, anyway.
    Last edited: Jun 28, 2021
  4. bayoubud, Jun 28, 2021
    #4
    bayoubud

    bayoubud Senior Member

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    Check the shifter connection on the gear. Had one come loose and fall off locked in fwd years ago.
  5. Brian G, Jun 28, 2021
    #5
    Brian G

    Brian G Member

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    Thanks for the help! The cable from the actuator to the transmission was broken at the gear shifter/lever. I really appreciate it!
  6. Pascal, Jun 28, 2021
    #6
    Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

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    Yep... had a similar issue years ago with the same controls/engines/gear. There is a cable between the Morse servo and the lever on the gear. That cable can fail or bind. In my case it wasn’t broken but had been moved by a mechanic. The Morse servo sensed an a normal load, idled the engine and returned the gear to N. It happened a few times over a period of time and took me a while to figure it out.
    Brian G likes this.
  7. Capt J, Jun 28, 2021
    #7
    Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

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    Change both cables.
  8. Brian G, Jun 28, 2021
    #8
    Brian G

    Brian G Member

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    That's a good reminder. Will do. Thanks.