2006 Johnson SD 3.5 HP 2 Stroke Outboard Service Manual, PN 5006562, Page 125Get 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 outboard will START in gear, and boat will move suddenly