I removed the lower unit to replace the water pump and check the shift rod seals, clean the shift shaft housing and seals, so I had to remove the shift rod. Replaced and set at 26 15/16 per the manual. When I put the lower unit back on, I had to run the shift trunnion all the way out to get the cable on in neutral.So now I am wondering if this is the right spec? I have read somewhere that some part of the shift linkage is supposed to be setting horizonal when connected, in neutral. I just want to make sure this is set right, to avoid any shifting problems. It seems like the rod is now too long. Any advice?

