Johnson 9.9 "Jumps" Into Reverse

[Viking62]

Model CJ10RCDB
Serial R 7302920

Motor will spontaneously jump into reverse particularly when at high idle and sometimes is difficult to shift into forward.
I removed the lower end to check shift rods. Found top bolt on shift rod connector showed signs of wear. Also top shift rod seems to have tension on it. It rubs where it exits the mid section at bottom end.
Lower unit seems to shift ok between reverse, forward and neutral.
I'm thinking the issue is the upper shift rod.
Is it adjustable?
Any insight?

Thanks, Mike

 

[flyingscott]

The lower shift rod should be adjustable turn it to tight then back off 1/4-1/2 turn only enough to line it up with the top rod. As long as it is a 2 strk motor.

 

[Viking62]

Thanks. It is a two stroke. I'll look at the lower shift rod and report back.