1997 Johnson Evinrude "EU" 40 thru 55 2-Cylinder Service Manual, P/N 507265, Page 253Get this manual
Shift Cable AdjustmentTiller Models The shift cable must be adjusted correctly or water pressure from forward boat travel could move the gate into REVERSE, causing the boat to stop abruptlyOccupants could be thrown about or ejected&
1Adjust both cable connectors to allow lS in(3 mm) of shift cable threads exposedSecure connector with locknut2Secure shift cable to both upper and lower brackets3Secure upper cable connector to shift handle
4Pull up on shift cam until cam roller is at the far end of the FORWARD detent range
[] 5Move shift handle to FORWARD positionPush cable guide onto shift cam stud and secure with washer and locknut[[] 6Move shift handle to NEUTRALThe cam roller should snap into NEUTRAL detent when you pull up on the reverse gate with moderate pressure7If you cannot achieve NEUTRAL detent, loosen the two screws retaining the lower cable bracket to jet housingSlide the bracket back slightly toward reverse gate to lengthen cableTighten screws and recheck your adjustmentIt is very important that the reverse gate remains locked in the FORWARD detent range when shift handle is in FORWARDWhen properly adjusted, the reverse gate cannot be pulled out of the FORWARD detent range by hand 8Move shift handle to NEUTRALVerify that the shift ball of neutral detent is centered in grooveIf necessary to adjust, loosen the two shift shaft screws and move detent until shift ball is centeredTighten screws and verify adjustment