1978 175 HP Shift Rod Removal

scotfordri · Aug 19, 2013

I am trying to remove the lower unit on my 1978 175HP. I was able to remove the shift linkage, spread the arms holding the pin, and release the shift rod. Once all bolts have been removed, the lower unit slides down easily 8", then the top of the shift rod appears to get caught on something (in the access tube) and jams. Looking at the shaft's positioning in the tube (where it leaves the lower unit and extends into the tube) it appears to be off center. I've tried this in the raised and lower positions, which no change in results. Do I have to remove the shift rod connector from the top of the shift rod??? Any suggestions?