Outboard motor won't go into gear...

[GeauxLSU]

25hp Honda 4 stroke, tiller steer. Can't get it into gear. Gradually became harder and harder to shift now feels like the lever will literally break if pushed harder. Any ideas?
Any recs for a good mechanic (assuming this is something even remotely complex) in NE Georgia/Lanier area?

 

[harrycalahan]

Could be a worn shift shaft/bushing or clutch dog assembly. Cant help you with a good mechanic. I know a reeeeeal sorry one though

 

[StuP]

Very possibly the shift mechanism, a lot use cables and may just need adjusting. I'd check online, if that's the case I'm sure you'll find pics / vids explaining it and it'll be pretty simple.

 

[Grdbreaker]

Could be a worn shift shaft/bushing or clutch dog assembly. Cant help you with a good mechanic. I know a reeeeeal sorry one though

X2!!

 

[7pt62THOR]

Betcha it's the flux capacitor.

 

[GeauxLSU]

Could be a worn shift shaft/bushing or clutch dog assembly. Cant help you with a good mechanic. I know a reeeeeal sorry one though

Ironically, I've had really good luck with sorry mechanics!
The fish are biting and my fish free freezer gives me a sad!

 

[bilgerat]

is it a twist the throttle handlel to shift or does it have a lever on the side?

 

[GeauxLSU]

is it a twist the throttle handlel to shift or does it have a lever on the side?

Lever. Just checked (with engine off) and it will go into reverse, but not into forward.
It's always been easy to shift when off and harder when running. I assume that's normal.

 

[bilgerat]

whats the gear lube look like?

 

[GeauxLSU]

whats the gear lube look like?

No idea. I haven't dared tried to disassemble anything. I guess I'll try after graduating YouTubeUniversity.