1985 Mariner 25hp Outboard - Reverse Claw Doesn't Disengage In Forward Gear

[bepmariner54]

The reverse lock claw on my 1985 25hp Outboard Tiller Handle doesn't disengage in forward gear. The motor is locked to the pin in all gears. The shift shaft has the washer installed and the shift shaft has gone through the opening on the reverse lock rod, but it doesn't seem to lift the rod and claw high enough to disengage from the pin in forward. Is there some adjustment I need to make on the reverse rod or an addition of a spacer above the shift shaft washer to get more movement? The rod just doesn't move enough to lift the reverse lock claw off the pin.

 

[flyingscott]

Check the hook where it goes into the claws. See if they are in good shape?