Re: 1957 Johnson 35hp wont stay in gear

[Don]

OK, guess it was the term "slack adjustment" that confused me. I thought this was the adjustment you were referring to. Very important adjustment indeed, but keep in mind it can not resolve sloppy linkage problems. I understand what you are saying, making sure the lugs are fully engaged in forward gear. But, if there is too much slop in the linkage, you will end up with only partial/no engagement in reverse and the lugs may not disengage enough when shifted into neutral.
You are absolutely right, this adjustment should be checked often, especially after reinstalling the gearcase.