Before I took the subject motor apart, I tried the neutral clutch, and it
did not release the lower driveshaft when the lever was lifted.

Upon taking it apart, I notice the end of the clutch spring was too
high for the dog to engage the spring. Upon further disassembly,
and inspection, I was able to get the clutch spring down further on
the drum, where the dog would engage it when the cable is pulled.

While apart, I also noticed that the inner “shock spring” was sticking
out of the top of the clutch sleeve about 3/8″.  I didn’t think that spring
with an “open end” should be ridding on the water pump base housing
and bronze bushing, so I compressed it back into the sleeve using
the vise.

I got to wondering why both springs “rode up” too high. After I compress
the shock spring back in the sleeve flush, I notice that there would be about
3/8″ inch gap between the top of the clutch sleeve, and the bottom of the
water pump base housing bushing. If the driveshaft “rides up” that 3/8″
along with the clutch assembly, then I don’t think the clutch dog would be
able to engage the clutch spring.

I started digging in the Johnson 10th Edition manual at the TN series
with the neutral clutch, and they are showing a “retainer”, part #302309
on the top side of the clutch sleeve.
I’m not sure if the GALE and JOHNSON motors with the neutral clutch,
of the same years, have all the same parts in the lower unit? Obviously,
the top of the motors, and what activates the clutch cable are different.

Anyway, I’m wondering if I’m actually missing the retainer, or if my
Gale Buccaneer is designed a little different? Further to confuse the
mater, the lower unit is “green”, making me wonder if it has a TN
lower unit. That said, there’s hints of green all over this brown
Buccaneer, like it was “camoflauged” at one time 🙁

Also, I’m wondering if anyone has any photos of said retainer, and even
better, measurements in case I decide to try to make one on the lathe.
Marine Engine shows they have some in stock, but no photos of the part.

If I’m missing this part “for sure”, then I may have a Johnson TN left
that I can borrow some parts.

Thanks.

This photo is after I got the clutch spring back “down” and in place, but
before I compressed the shock spring back into the sleeve. Is the spring
suppose to be sticking out?