[preinholtz]

I replaced the water pump impeller on my mercury 4 hp,("mercury 40" on motor, about 1975), but when I put the lower unit back in, it seems to be locked in gear and won't go into neutral. It is like the shift rod won't push whatever it should to disengage the pinion gears. I know there has to be a trick to get the shift lever rod and lower unit back together right, but could someone help out. THANKS

[Derric]

If there is a little splined shaft in front of water pump turn that shaft till your prop shaft is will turn freely thats neutral. the put shift lever in neutral and put it back together good luck ! it worked for me.