Stuck in forward gear

[lastcavalier1864]

I have a 40hp Mercury that will not go into reverse gear. I can't figure it out. Any help is appreciated.

 

[beckerjs]

did you have the lower unit off lately, you need to remove it now and shift it my hand to see whats up

 

[lastcavalier1864]

Yes I have replaced my lower unit with a used one. How do I shift it by hand? Also there is a small black plastic tube that comes to a tapered point that screws into the front of the lower unit, can you tell me what it is and where it goes? Thanks for your help.

 

[lastcavalier1864]

OK now I know what the small black plastic tube is. It is un-necessary on my boat as my speedometer is through my depth finder.