I have a mid 70's 50 hp Johnson outboard motor it will not shift into neutral or rev.HELP?

Question

There are no mechanical shift mechanisms .Is this motor electronic shift how to clean contacts

Answer 1

On this engine, if, I am correct. The shift is above the Throttle cable on the Starboard side of the engine.
http://www.amazon.com/Evinrude-Johnson-Outboard-Manual-48-235/dp/0892875550
You can try the link and below the picture click, "Search inside this book"
May be on page 222 "Shift Lever Detent".
You may need to remove the cable and see if you can manually shift the engine. If, not then it may be something in the lower unit or the shift rod going down to it. If, it shift easy then next have someone shift the control box and see if the cable move. The cable may be broke of disconnected inside the box or the box need a part replaced.
Depending n the Search on Amazon you may be able to find information about the control box. But, it basically comes apart. Remove the screws including the shift level and work slow looking at what going on.
On Amazon find the Table of Contents, I think you want chapter 5 "Engine Synchronization and Linkage Adjustments" this may give the page you need.

Answer 2

if it is electric shift, you have lost 12V power to the lower unit or both coils have given up the ghost sorry, no contacts to clean. if you can restore 12V, good for you. if not, i wouldn't try to repair it, try to replace it. parts are hard to find and "hell" to install. not worth the trouble. best of luck.

Answer 3

that engine was designed to default to fwd,so that you could limp home.Check the lower unit for oil.Check for impact damage etc,be prepared to take it to shop.