Paragon SAOD Forward Adjustment

[BigIdea]

While cruising in Mexico I recently got tangled in a fishing net for the first time and likely self-inflicted my current problem... I initially applied rapid forward/ reverse with lots of power but the prop was completely locked up. Finally had to dive below and cut everything free.
Now, when in forward gear, speed is less than expected. But if I pull up on the gear handle (i.e. past the usual detent position), I can hear a change and speed increases by ~1 kt.

Questions: (thanks in advance for your reply)

1. Is there any way to adjust clutch linkage so it applies more pressure when the gear lever is in the normal detent position?
2. Will adjusting the reverse bands have any impact?
3. Will leaving it alone cause damage to the transmission?

Please note - we are in Mexico now and I have limited tools, knowledge, skills. Anything beyond basic adjustments will require getting a mechanic.

[Capt Phil]

Sounds like you might have burned out the clutch facing if engine rpm's are still high. Eventually you won't be able to use either forward or reverse. Suggest you get a solid marine mechanic to check her out and repair... clutch refacing/replacing is not a big deal but what you describe are the death throes of your existing propulsion system. Phil

[BigIdea]

Thanks Capt Phil - that is the consensus of professional opinion as well. I am in the process now of replacing the old Paragon with a new Velvet Drive.

[pdxsailordiver]

You can adjust the drive clutch. Remove the four bolts on the cover, remove one bolt rotating the clutch plate one bolt hole.
Mine started slipping coming down the Straights of Juan DE Fuca this summer. RPM would go up and the boat would slow, then it would settle down. We shut the motor down and it took about 15 minutes to fix.

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