what did I do wrong? stuck in gear.

[plumbob]

Hi Guys, I rebuilt the water pump on my Dad's 1980 40hp mercury outboard and reassembled the motor. It is now stuck in forward gear. the shift lever won't move at all. I took it apart to see if i had something in a bind, but everything looks good. I need help. thank you

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: what did I do wrong? stuck in gear.

What does the troubleshooting in the manual say?

I think, (and by that i remember reading it) that you have to have it in forward gear when you put it back together or it wont work.