Yamaha shift rod connector plates

[Yatabata]

I have a 2000 4HP F4MSHY trying to c8mpany up with a way to put the plates back on. Any tips on this? Thanks

[Yatabata]

I figured it out. What a pain even for a good back yard mechanic. I know one of the youtube videos shows this but lucky for them there was access holes on both sides of the lower unit to put these shift rod plates back on. Anyway for anyone who needs a tip on this use a long thread bolt and string to hold the back piece on the back side of both rods and put the bolt and other plate glued taped or whatever to start the bolt. Once you have it started your on your way. Make sure the upper and lower rods are in the neutral position which helps so you don't have to do it twice. As I found out the hard way.

[Yatabata]

Anyone who would like a good tip on restoring these clips on the lower unit shift rods let me know.