1991 Johnson/Evinrude EI Outboards 2.3 thru 8 Service Manual, Page 256Get this manual
Outboard Shift System and Persons Safety The outboard Shift System starts here at the remote control lever
and ends here at the propeller
What's Most Important? When control lever is in "Forward," "Neutral" or "Reverse" position,
Shift linkage must match control lever positionWhat Could Happen?
Forward or Reverse propeller still powered (turning) unknown to operator, or motor will Start in Gear, boat will move suddenly
.Reverse
boat will move Opposite to direction wanted by operator