1965 3HP johnson lower unit removal

[DK_BOE_SR]

Just retired, and trying to bring back to life a 3hp Johnson ( model # JW20B, Ser. # 132517). The problem is trying to remove the lower unit to install a new impeller.
Removed the 4 bolts holding the foot on the lower unit, and it will only slide down about 1/2" and stop. It sounds like there is possibly slop in the gears in the foot and the driveshaft is not moving. My question is there something I am missing or is the shaft "froze" in the crankshaft. Thanks in advance for any advice you have to offer. If shaft is "frozen" even thought about turning motor upside down and let penetrating oil slide down shaft.

Thanks for your thoughts,
Dave

 

[F_R]

Driveshaft/crankshaft splines are frozen. All because the last guy didn't put the o-ring back in. Your upside down method might work, depending on how bad it is. If all else fails, force it off (it will force the water pump key through the pump housing). Then pull the powerhead and you will be able to deal with the stuck shaft better.

 

[boobie]

If you turn it upside down hang the gear case by a rope from the ceiling. Then squirt some PB Blaster down the drive shaft. After it soaks for a day or two, give the power head a few raps downward.

 

[twocyclemania]

I have an 86 Johnson 4 hp with a similar problem. I bought it with the driveshaft broken. The previous owner could not get the driveshaft out of the powerhead so he tied the motor to a tree and pulled the shaft with his car (not sure how he did it). The driveshaft snapped about 4 inches from the water pump. I've been soaking the driveshaft where it mounts with the crank in hopes of it coming out. I've used Kroil, PB Blaster, CRC, and heat on occasion; trying not to damage the seal. I've used a vice grip on the shaft leveraged with a block and have whacked it with a hammer (especially while applying heat) but hopefully not hard enough to damage the bearing or crank. After 4 months the shaft still will not release. The top of this shaft (unlike older models) has no groove for a rubber O ring for protection. What I'm saying is it may not be easy to get the shaft out of the powerhead. I'm still soaking it (upside down on my bench) and still waiting. It may take a while. I'm in no real hurry since driveshafts for this motor are expensive and I can't seem to find one. Unless I can find one at a reasonable price the motor will sit or go to parts.

 

[DK_BOE_SR]

Thanks for the suggestions, will try soaking before pulling powerhead