1985 evinrude stuck in reverse

[mpd145]

I have a 1985 40hp rude rebuilt in 1992. used all summer with no problem. It is stuck in reverse. Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated

[Dhadley]

We'll assume you mean the shifter moves but the motor stays in reverse. Have someone move the shifter while you watch the cable at the powerhead.

[mpd145]

I start engine in neutral everything is normal..when i drop it into reverse it goes in smoothly and runs normal..when i try to go from reverse to neutral the shifter works but it stays in reverse and engine revs faster. I can remove engine cover and manually put it into neutral but NOT forward.