Great info; thank you so much!you will have to remove the power head to access the shift under under it ... not as big a job as it seems 7 screws a few hoses and side side throttle post
see video
change the impeller ... !
if you are careful you may be able to save the main gasket under the PH otherwise you can order it from Vintage outboard .com
313065 gasket, base for Johnson/Evinrude 5.5hp 1959-64 – VintageOutboard.com
dont mix the gaskets .... patterns differ match old and new
great motor btw.... respect oil/fuel ratio recommended
Thank you -Use a 24:1 mix on your motor.
Doing a rebuild on my 1988 force 125hp brought me both patience and joy after inventing several different cuss wordsyou will likely need to service the electricals (coils, condensers, points , wires to the plugs while you have it apart ... not a big job ..
see videos
Johnson (leeroysramblings.com)
1.5 - 40HP Outboard Engines Ignition Coil For OMC Johnson Evinrude
584477 582995 | eBay
patience brings joy