MD11C forward gear engagement

[cxz]

Hi all,

I have an MD11C that engages forward sometimes only. Driving reverse always works. When in forward gear I can see the coupling rotating ever so slightly. I believe it is an MSB gearbox.

This year I fixed the stuffing box with a new packing on the shaft as preventive maintenance, but it is a bit tight as I used 6mm cord and too hot when I drive. But I don't think that's the problem here.

I have checked the cables and I'm not entirely sure what to look for but they seem as I would expect and go through the full range of motion. However I did find one jacket has been cracked and putting my fingernail in showed some rust there inside. I should mention towards the end of last season the gear had been sticking a little whenever going into neutral although it doesn't seem to happen now.

I'm going to change the packing soon but it's no fun sailing around the harbor without forward gear. Any help appreciated.

[capt jgw]

Quick diagnosis is to disconnect the shift cable from the trans, then shift into gear with the lever on the trans. If that works, the problem is the cable or adjustment. If it still doesn't go into gear properly, the problem is internal. Most likely the clutch is slipping. I'm not familiar with that model but most have separate clutches for forward and reverse so one failing doesn't effect the other. And forward usually fails first.