1986 Force 125 hp outboard motor, stuck in reverse?
Please help if you know. Yesterday the motor ran fine. This morning it was stuck in forward, then this afternoon it was stuck in reverse. We went around in circles in reverse for about 20 minutes and then suddenly we were able to get it to go forward again. Do you have a clue what the problem is?
Thank You in advance
check the oil level in the lower unit and make sure its not got water in it and if it is full. that woul cause resistance on the shift dog but more than likly a cable or controler problem.

Might be a linkage problem or a control issue. There might be a mechanical failure in the gear box itself.
What is happening? Are the controls jammed? Is there a stiffness in the shift – that could mean a failing control cable. If the shift seems loose and seems to do nothing then a linkage may have loosened in the leg or control box, unlikely to start working again though.
If you buy a service manual you will have some idea of what to look for.
References :
check the oil level in the lower unit and make sure its not got water in it and if it is full. that woul cause resistance on the shift dog but more than likly a cable or controler problem.
References :
With this information, I’d look at the control cables. They run from the shift box ant the helm to the motor. It’s easy to disconnect them at he motor. Then try shifting without the motor running. If the cables are hard to move they should be replaced. Good luck!
References :