I have the 1980 GP #8957 that apparently has an inoperable E unit. This engine is one that I would run just at Christmas time. I doubt there are more than a couple of hours of real operating time on it. When I took the shell off, all wires and contact points are almost factory new. I can easily move the plunger on the E unit with a small screwdriver up and it will fall down, move the gear and I can manually go thru the position of forward neutral reverse. The engine does operate in forward and reverse. The lever on the bottom moves easily and seems to be seated in the correct spot for making contact with the E unit if in the on position.
I have an old repair book that says I should really clean the plunger and gears with TV TUNER or the like, but if the plunger moves easily, is that the necessary fix? And I’m guessing that when power is applied, the solenoid pulls the plunger up, or am I mistaken?
