dog clutch doesn't always engage right away in outdrive

[Lively1]

The dog clutch in my Alpha One is slipping a bit when engaging in the forward direction. It sometimes engages right away (one clunk), sometimes it takes two or three clunks before engaging. Just started doing it this year (few weeks ago).  It has not disengaged or slipped at all at higher revs/running speed however.

 

This is the advice I seek:

Is this a serious problem needing immediate attention or can it wait till July/August?  (will be a long wait for service now anyway)

When these fail is it gradual or all at once?  Will continuing to operate this way damage anything other than the dog clutch? 

Is there an adjustment to the shifter cable I can try or is this best left to a pro?

 

Thanks.

Edited May 18, 2020 by Lively1

[L&M]

This is the advice I seek:

Is this a serious problem needing immediate attention or can it wait till July/August? 

(will be a long wait for service now anyway) 

 

**It should be addressed asap

 

When these fail is it gradual or all at once? 

Will continuing to operate this way damage anything other than the dog clutch? 

 

**Damage to both the clutch dog & forward gear is happening every time you shift it in to forward.

 

I would guess it's lower shift cable & or worn shift yoke or splines down below. At any rate addressing it now will probably save you grief & money in the end.