bravo 2 forward shift delay

I have a D3.6L 180 hp mercruiser diesel approx. 1998 model with a Bravo 2 sterndrive. When selecting forward gear it seems to select "softly" and only partially engages. When shift control is pushed forward and RPM increases to about 1000 - 1100 forward gear will completely engage after about 4 seconds. Once completely engaged it will operate at cruising speed or full RPM continuously without slipping. Reverse gear selects as normal with no issues. As the leg was due for other repairs I have removed and disassembled the top box. The cone clutch and mating surfaces do not appear to have any obvious failure and there is no visible difference between forward and reverse clutch and mechanisms. Can anyone offer any advise ?

Does it happen more when the oil is cold than hot ? Maybe cold oil with smooth/worn cone surface allows it to spin more before the cone locks up. The forward cone should be worn more than the reverse cone as it gets used more. If the cone ribs are worn wider ,the extra surface area may delay lock up time and more force is needed for lock up ?Maybe if you ruff up the cone mating surface with fine sand paper and look at the grade of oil you are using it may help.

Quick Silver or Mercury High Performance Gear Oil Only in any Bravo Drive.

old post, never mind. But for someone new trying to learn something, sure sounds like a misadjusted shift cable.