35 Johnson in reverse no matter where the remote shift lever is...please help!

[idler]

Hey guys, so I launched a boat I haven't used for a couple years. started right up...runs great! But it started backing out of the landing even though the remote lever was in neutral. I shifted to forward but still in reverse. I shifted to reverse...no changed. So its in reverse no matter the remote lever position. I took off the cowling and the shifting arms appear to be working properly. Any ideas what could be the problem? Could the shift linkage rod have broken or become disconnected over winter somehow? Everything was good when I stored it a year ago. That's all I can think of. It will only start when the shift lever is in neutral so everything in the control box seems good. Thanks for the help guys.

 

[racerone]

A 1959 ?---1976 ?-----1999 model ?

 

[idler]

Sorry, 35 Johnson 1998 I believe. J35QLECA

 

[racerone]

Drain gear oil.----Any metal bits ?-----Remove plastic water intake screen.----Does shift rod move up and down there?

 

[idler]

I'll check that and let you know. Thanks.

 

[idler]

I haven't been able to drain the lower yet but I did remove the water pump screen. The upper rod is disconnected from the lower rod by about ⅛ inch. Neither rod moves up or down. https://photos.app.goo.gl/MbDajhJxnSctF1m98

 

[racerone]

Time to make the needed repairs.----Powerhead may need to be removed to see an issue at the top of upper shift rod.----That black plastic keeper may also need to be replaced.----Repairs on this are straight forward I think.

 

[idler]

Thanks Racerone!