Port Gear Shifter will not engage forward

[bobstorey]

My port gear shifter on my 1987 Hatteras 54' stopped responding in the midst of docking - will not stay forward - "spongy" to the touch. Shift lever simply reverts back to neutral position. Same for both helms. Have noticed some oil leak around the lower helm gear shift station - apparently from within the housing, as there is no evidence of leaks at the helm connections themselves.

Anyone familiar with this? Trying to manage a quick diagnosis to take advantage of a weather window with Nicole.

 

[Nonchalant1]

That's the standard clue for low oil pressure, frequently caused by a clog in the oil pickup tube leading to the pump. There is a 3 bolt flange on the pickup tube to get in for a look.

 

[Pascal]

That's the standard clue for low oil pressure, frequently caused by a clog in the oil pickup tube leading to the pump. There is a 3 bolt flange on the pickup tube to get in for a look.

I m pretty sure the 54s had hynautic shifting. What you describe is the heat not engaging, if his hynautic control feel spongy it s not a heat problem

 

[bobstorey]

Thanks everyone. Pascal - correct.

Talked to Jens Mathiesen and he had me reset the valve blocks to recharge the system and bled at each of the helm shifters. Cleared it up. Apparently have a small internal leak on the lower helm port shifter, so will need to watch, but can send off for repair off season.

Appreciate the immediate response from the Forum. Sitting in Mateo, NC trying to decide my Nicole strategy.

 

[Dave R]

My port gear shifter on my 1987 Hatteras 54' stopped responding in the midst of docking - will not stay forward - "spongy" to the touch. Shift lever simply reverts back to neutral position. Same for both helms. Have noticed some oil leak around the lower helm gear shift station - apparently from within the housing, as there is no evidence of leaks at the helm connections themselves.

Anyone familiar with this? Trying to manage a quick diagnosis to take advantage of a weather window with Nicole.

Hi -

Low transmission fluid level or a bad pump can do that. Check your oil level (engine running, idling) and also the transmission oil pressure. A bad pump caused this for us. I guess also the shifter

 

[Pascal]

Hi -

Low transmission fluid level or a bad pump can do that. Check your oil level (engine running, idling) and also the transmission oil pressure. A bad pump caused this for us. I guess also the shifter

Low oil level in the Allison will cause a delay in shifting forward and eventually results in the clutch slipping under load. There will be no delay getting in reverse. That s the biggest red flag about low oil or suction leak