1985 mercury 18hp XD

[springer82]

I just got a small fishing boat with a XD motor yesterday. I'm trying to replace the impeller. I have all 4 bolts removed. the bottom end will drop down about 2" but will not come out. I have a service manual on order. It should arrive next week. I watched a few videos on YouTube it should be fine. What am I missing? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[alldodge]

Not a OB guru, but do have 4 very old Chrysler OB
Look at the shift linkage going down to the lower leg. It may have a cotter pin that needs to be removed to disconnect

 

[racerone]

Look near the carburetor.----Operate shift.---You will see the linkage.

 

[springer82]

Thank you for your response. This is my first boat an motor. I will try to follow the linkage but I'm not sure how that will work. I can't get the lower end off so I don't know how how to check the linkage above it. Also it's almost 6 pm. I tried to push it back together again. lol,,, That's a no go. I think it has to do with gearing. I wish i had my manual!!!

 

[alldodge]

As racerone mentioned, move the shift linkage and look under the carb, there is something under there that is connected to the lower

 

[flyingscott]

Take the hood off and To the right of the carb is the shifting linkage. When you drop the lower make sure the washer comes off with the shift rod.

 

[springer82]

I will definitely take a good hard look at that tomorrow. Thank you very much for your time. Have a great 4th of July!!