Reverse lock lever frozen on 71 Johnson 60hp

[ThreeCylinder]

Newbie here...

The lever at the base of the motor (under the plate that extends to attach the steering) is frozen in the unlocked position. I have tried WD40'ing it for a while to no avail. I don't have a schematic (will order from ebay shortly) but it looks like the entire engine would need to be removed at the turn pivots in order to get to the space the level mechanism begins and extends down to the locking clamps.

In reviewing the users manual, I know note that the lever is frozen in the LOCKed position, yet the clamps are not engaged. So there may be more wrong here than just the shaft from the lever rusted in the bushing

Does anyone have experience in how to go about repairing this? Alternative ideas for engaging the clamps? Am I basically correct in the extent of the engine disassembly required to get at this part?

Thanks all,

Rick

[cookjeremy]

try greasing it at the grease nipple if that doesn't work take out grease nipple and soak with liquid wrench and a little heat, if that doesn't work going to have to take apart.