Question on Yamaha 4 HP 4 stroke kicker

Montana Kev

I have a 2007 Yamaha 4 HP long shaft. There is a friction knob/bolt/set-screw on the back that you turn so you can lock the motor in one position left or right. Or you can use it to just add friction to the steering as you motor.

I accidentally un screwed the bolt all the way out and had a heck of a time getting it to lined up to go back in. Now that it screws back in, there is no friction. Anyone know how this works, what may be wrong?

Thanks,
Kevin

texasair · Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2010 12:23 am Post subject:

Don't know about that motor specifically but on other small outboards that I have owned, I seem to remember a pressure plate that the screw pressed onto. Seems to me it was a piece of hard plactic that was slightly rounded to match the round pivot area on the motor. This way it would apply uniform smooth friction. I would bet that you lost this piece or a spacer or pressure pad that goes between the bolt and the friction pressure plate.
I know that you can look up parts schematics for all Mercury outboards online, I guess that you could for Yamaha also. Look at the parts schematic and I bet that you will see a part shown in the diagram that is not there anymore or in the wrong position.

Montana Kev · Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2010 8:51 am Post subject:

You're right. I found a parts schematic and I think I see whats going on. There is a thing called a friction plate, more of a band goes all the way around the shaft inside the housing. It must have slipped down. Will need to fiddle with it some more. May have to get inside of it to re-adjust. Will call the dealer to see what they suggest.

Thanks,
Kevin