trying to figure the ratio of this bravo 3 I have an option on. pull shift linkage all the way out, rotate upper, lower no move. push shift link all way in, same thing, turn upper and no lower. turn lower and other lower turns other way, feels ok. am I doing something wrong here? or is there an issue with the upper where I got 3 neutrals?

When the shift linkage is pulled out on the drive it shifts it into gear (forward I believe). When the shift linkage is pushed back in it shifts into neutral (assuming you don't push it in too far. Make sure you are pulling it out all the way. Don't be afraid to grab the cable jaws with a pair of pliers and give her a firm pull out.