Reverse shift hesitation ('89 OMC King Cobra)

[BigBabyLou]

I have '89 OMC King Cobra with '88 460 engine and when shifting into reverse, it is slow, sometimes it takes more attempts to engage the reverse. I always make quick shifts in both directions and forward is fine. It's just reverse that is acting up now.<br />When I move the throttle back, I mostly find myself in neutral now and she won't shift. I can even move the throttle even further back, the RPM's increase and she will eventually shift. The shifting is accompanied by the usual grinding noise, except a little longer in this case.<br /><br />She used to shift great. Once again, forward direction is without any problems. And also I did not notice any stiffnes in the cable or anything.<br /><br />What should I check? The fluid in the lower unit is A-ok, prop doesn't have much in-play (maybe 1/32nd?). Any suggestions?<br /><br />Thanks ahead<br />Lou