1997 mercury tracker 40hp is not shifting from forward when shifted to neutral nor reverse

[G-POPGUNNELLS]

When shifting from forward to neutral and reverse, it stays in forward drive what part is broken? What is the proper name for it?

 

[racerone]

Was lower unit off for water pump work ?----If so, it was likely installed wrong.----Try again.

 

[G-POPGUNNELLS]

Was lower unit off for water pump work ?----If so, it was likely installed wrong.----Try again.

No I was on the lake swimming and when I got back on and crunk it up I think I was on a stump

 

[chrisgt]

does the shift rod to the lower unit go up and down when you shift from forward to reverse? The shaft starts at the junction under the carburetor and goes down the front of the leg to the lower unit, check to make sure something simple hasn't become disconnected before you assume the worst.

 

[G-POPGUNNELLS]

Ok I’ll check this afternoon after I get off from work thanks