Shift issues on 9.9

[Reedz75]

Hi folks. I’m relatively new to outboards but not new to working on things with tools
I’ve got a 1976 evinrude 9.9 that I’m having issues with.
I had to replace thrust mounts and when I reassembled everything I can’t get the reverse to lock in. It worked before taking the motor apart. I’ve adjusted the shifter to no avail and I also adjusted the rod in the lower unit with no luck. With the LU off I can easily change the gears and all works properly.
Could I have bent the lower shift rod somehow maybe reassembling? Not sure what to try next ?

 

[racerone]

The lower shift rod must be screwed all the way in.----Backed out enuff for bend to face forward.-----Notch on lower shift rod MUST line up with hole in connecter before the screw is put in.----There is no adjustment at the brass connecter.

 

[Reedz75]

So that power shift rod isn’t supposed to be backed out at all for adjustments?
I’ll screw it all the way in as you’ve suggested
The notch is lined up on connector. No issue there.
I’ll screw in rod all the way and report back

 

[Reedz75]

Just wanted to provide an update. Screwing the rod all the way in worked as you suggested. I now have FNR again. Thank you very much for your help

 

[racerone]

Pretty simple to me.