Yes, connecting battery voltage to the motor wires would make the motor work. Reversing the polarity would make motor work in opposite direction.
As for the gear lever stuck in Neutral, it most probably is a seized linkage as mentioned by JIS001.
Disconnect the linkage at trans and try shifting the lever at trans, if it works, the shift linkage has to be serviced or parts replaced.
Tuesday, April 7th, 2009 AT 7:40 AM