Need help installing lower unit on 50hp

[tbagger]

I just replaced the impeller and gaskets on my mid-70's merc 500 water pump. I can get the lower unit back on the motor but the shift splines don't seem to line up right, when together shifting into nuetral or forward and reverse the prop turns in the same direction no matter which gear it's in. I had it in forward when I took it apart and did not change it until back together, what am I doing wrong? Thanks, Tom

 

[merc850]

Re: Need help installing lower unit on 50hp

Turn the LU shift shaft by hand counter-clockwise until it
stops, then with Vise Grips tight on the bottom of the shaft turn it a
few more degrees CCW until it clicks into a stop, this
should be neutral - check by turning propshaft --
do not shift into reverse unless you turn the propshaft at the same time.
If it is in N go ahead and attach LU to driveshaft housing with control in N.