1988 150 Mercury Blackmax Shift Rod Problems

[Ninnehoser]

I was replacing the top seal on the lower unit after rebuilding the water pump. When removing the bushing the shift rod came out with it. I can not get it back in. I tried turning prop but unable to feel or hear ratching sound. I can not get the piece in the hole to come even close to align the shaft back in. I tried the prop turning technique, turned the lower unit every which way you can think of. Does anyone have any other tricks without tearing into lower unit? Thanks for the help.

 

[Ninnehoser]

Hello folks. I work a lot of hours during the week so the only time I have to work ok this lower unit is on the weekend. I know I would rather be fishing. So please any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again.

 

[Dukedog]

almost impossible (for me anyway) ta get it and tha shift cam lined up and stay in tha right place....know some that can do this though.

 

[Faztbullet]

If its a standard unit pull the carrier so you can move the propshaft in/out..turning dont do anything.If its a Xr4 pull the propshaft.

 

[Ninnehoser]

Thanks for the advice. It is XR4. I really appreciate all the help.