outboard motor shift linkage adjustment help

Hello,  I have 2 outboard motors I need some help with on correct procedure on adjusting the shift rod linkage going down to the foot. They both have the tall nut and jam nut on the rod.

1:  2011 Tohatsu  20hp  4 stroke
2:  1986 Suzuki    25hp  2 stroke.

Manual doesnt help worth a !@#$

There's a site called Bass Boat Central. Has a great forum section. Check it out and you may be able to find some help with your issues.