1956 evinrude 15 hp lower unit removal

[fastwin15]

Hello new to this site. I recently purchase a 1956 Evinrude Fastwin 15hp and am wanting to inspect the water pump/impeller. How do I remove the lower unit? I removed the bolts holding it on but the shift rod appears to be attached closer to the motor. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[F_R]

Shift rod disconnect is behind the oval plate on the side of the midsection. Completely remove the lower screw from the connector. Hint: When you put it back together, use a flashlight to peer in there and make sure the notch in the shift rod is exactly aligned with the screw hole. If not exactly aligned, the screw will rub on the side of the notch, which wipes the threads off the screw. Then it fall out, but never at dockside---always five miles out.

 

[fastwin15]

Thanks! I'll try it out this afternoon.

 

[fastwin15]

Came off just dandy. A fair bit of sand through the whole rod assembly and lower unit... looks like I've got some work to do! Thanks for your help F_R