1994 T9.9ELHS wont go in reverse

[jeannerynne]

I have two 1994 9.9HP outboards on my double-ender sailboat. Both of them stopped going into reverse at the same time. At the port outboard, I can disconnect the cable and manually shift the engine into reverse. When the cable is connected, it wont go into reverse at all and just chatters. I've adjusted the linkage nut/threaded road all the way in both directions with no change. Same with the starboard outboard but no chatter.

Is it just the cable that needs to be replaced on both?

How can you tell whether it is something in the gear case or not?

Thanks for your help!

Jeanne
owner of 47' San Juan Sharpie that my dad built

[boats.net]

If shifts ok by hand then gearcase should be ok and problem with controls or cables.