Nissan 8HP shifting problem

[Irishwake]

My Nissan 8HP 2 stroke won't shift into reverse without manually moving the prop about a quarter turn.
Then it fall into place and will shift.

Any ideas?

Thanks

 

[pvanv]

Normal. The motor needs to be running to shift.

 

[Irishwake]

Thanks Paul, but it won't shift properly if the motor is running or not.

Any other ideas why it won't go into reverse without manually moving the prop.

If I put pressure on the shifter and turn the prop by hand something seems to "line up" and it will suddenly shift.
I'm hoping before I start tearing things apart someone may give me a clue on what to look for.

Thanks again.