2003 Johnson ST 55 HP WRL 2 Stroke Commercial Service Manual, PN 5005483, Page 201Get this manual
Outboard Shift Systems and Safety
The outboard Shift System starts here at the remote control lever
.and ends here at the propeller
What is most important?
When control lever is in FORWARD, NEUTRAL or REVERSE
.shift linkage must match control lever position
What could happen?
FORWARD
propeller still powered (turning) unknown to operator, or motor will START in gear, boat will move suddenly