1999 johnson 90hp ocean pro - issues with reverse

[corey77]

Hi all ,

I have a 1999 Johnson 90 HP ocean pro v4 2 stroke .it sometimes won't go into reverse . and when it does the motor shudders and the is a grinding noise coming from the leg .
When the prop its out of water it engages reverse fine but when prop is lowered into the water it starts to shudder and make noises .

Any ideas what it could be ? Thanks .

[Solarman]

Check your prop to make sure it is not slipping. Then check to make sure your shifting linkage is going fully into reverse position. If slightly out of adjustment it may not be engaging reverse gear fully. If not going all the way into reverse, then the water (more dense than air) may cause it to jump in and out of gear, making a grinding noise. This will damage the gears if not corrected.

Has the lower unit been off for any reason recently, just prior to this problem?

Good luck. Post back when able.