2004 SR Johnson 4 Stroke 9.9-15HP Outboards Service Manual, Page 183Get 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?
IFIFFORWARD
.propeller still powered (turning) unknown to operator, or outboard will START in gear, and boat will move suddenly
FORWARD or REVERSE