'87 Merc 35hp shifting issues - need a mechanic

Have a merc that doesn't seem like it's going into gear at all. Have the lower unit off on a bench and if I rotate the shift gear the prop shaft doesn't engage (unless I push prop in towards the housing.)

I'm at my wits end with this thing, any merc guys in North Texas that would look at it for me??

if your not far from Quitman, i'd be happy to look at it