Yes, you have to pull the powerhead to access the shift linkage and remove the shifter handle. I just finished a resto job on and FD-12. Here’s what the linkage looks like after you pull the powerhead. Bend the locking tab down, remove the bolt and pull the shift handle out.
Bob
1937 Champion D2C Deluxe Lite Twin
1954 Johnson CD-11
1955 Johnson QD-16
1957 Evinrude Fastwin 18
1957 Evinrude 3022
1958 Johnson QD-19
1958 Johnson FD-12
1959 Johnson QD-20
1982 Evinrude 25hp
“Every 20 minute job is only a broken bolt away from a 3-day project.”
"Every time you remove a broken or seized bolt an angel gets his wings."