Volvo Penta Transmission Problem

[kismet]

Hello all. I have a perplexing problem with my Volvo tranny that I hope to correct with the help of this talented and experienced group. I have a Volvo Penta 2003T in my Van de Stadt ketch. The problem is that I cannot shift from one possition to another without stopping the engine. If I am in forward and try to shift into neutral, the shifter will not engage unless I stop the motor. same for going from reverse. I have checked the shifter linkage and this seems to be ok. The shifter rod that comes out the side of the transmission seems to work ok also. It is a kind of cam that moves the rod in or out a bit as the linkage is mover either forward or backward. Any suggestions? I did have an issue last winter at the yard that may have had some affect. The yard splashed the boat when I was not arround and they tied her to a bulkhead, but did not have a pump turned on and the stern glad was leaking. She took on quite a bit of water before someone noticed and the engine was sitting in water above the transmission fill pipe. I pumped out the water oil mix and replaced with fresh oil. The drive seems to work fine, but I do have this sticky shifter. and it makes for some exciting times trying to get into a slip. Any suggestions welcome. I know some out there, myself included would say junk the POS Volvo, but the money is not there for a replacement.