Engine always in forward

[neverenoughx2]

I have a 100hp 4 cycl merc. It was in the shipyard for two seasons. When I got it back I changed the water pump put it in the water and believe or not it starts in forward when I put it in reverse it stays in forward and will accelerate in forward. when i remove the lower unit and and put it in forward the gear shift moves a 1/4 one way. neutral moves back. then reverse moves it a 1/4 turn the other way. I am believe the problem is in the lower unit but I am not sure.

Please help.

[boats.net]

When you have gearcase off can you turn shift shaft on gearcase and will it go in gear?