I had shift dog problems in my 1957 35hp Johnson. I discovered that the forward and reverse gears are the same but they contain different brass inserts that ride on the prop shaft. I was able to swap positions of the brass inserts and therefore swap position of the forward and reverse gears, the reverse of course showing much less wear.
I didn’t know about placing an undercut on the dog and gear interface surfaces but did learn about if from Pappy at the Feb. Lake Alfred meet. First I’d heard of it. Have met a few that when I mention it that said ‘whatever’. Not me, I’m listening!
Also, I’ve run into a few motorheads that don’t know about adjusting the shifter so that full contact is made between the dog and forward gear. When the prop is turned by hand in forward gear a slight amount of friction can be felt. I learned this when a fellow gave mine a touch and mentioned I didn’t have mine adjusted optimally. In my best Garry Coleman I said, "What you talkin’ bout, Willis?"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qw9oX-kZ_9k
Great info!
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