Mercruiser 350 MAG MPI Alpha - engine cuts off shifting to neutral - common issues addressed

[wiles151]

2003 Mercruiser 350 MAG MPI Alpha, OM362XXX, I'm guessing about 300-400 hours, in a Ebbtide 210. Engine starts without issue, hot or cold. Idles well following cold start. Runs like a top under throttle. Reducing the throttle from speed, the engine returns to idle speed with no problem. Issue presents when I then shift to neutral, engine will frequently stop. Starts right back up. I've replaced the IAC valve twice: once with an aftermarket and most recently with a Mercruiser part. New spark plugs, wires, distributor cap, PCV valve, IAC muffle; all genuine Mercruiser

Any suggestions on where to go from here before taking it to a professional who while likely take near the end of summer to get to?

 

[sandkicker]

Alpha drives are equipped with a "shift interrupter" switch that momentarily stalls the engine in order to reduce momentarily pressure on the square cut gears in the "dog clutch" transmission in order to facilitate shifting. Frequently this needs adjustment.... or replacement

https://goneoutdoors.com/adjust-shift-mercruiser-alpha-one-7615487.html

 

[wiles151]

Thank you, Captain Bob! I will definitely check this out.

Chris

 

[Dieter]

Bob has you in the right direction heres a good video on shift cable adjustment. https://youtu.be/-s_tgevX2aI

if you cant adjust it you need to replace the cable as also when they wear the drag and hang up the shift interrupt switch.

 

[wiles151]

Excellent video, thank you so much!

Chris