1986 Johnson 70 Hp - shift rod disconnect for lower unit removal

[HugoB]

Hi,

I am struggling to figure out how to disconnect the shift rod linkage to remove the lower unit. I've got all the screws off and the lower unit separate from the upper body by 0.5 inches as illustrated in the . But it won't go any further, so I assume I have to disconnect the shift rod.
However the where the shift rod connects to the rest of the apparatus is hidden underneath the center of the engine and really hard to see. From what I have been able to peek through, the connection looks very simple (as illustrated in the diagram called shift rod connection) . However there doesn't seem to be a simple way to take it apart. Note in the side view the pin that holds the connection together is flush with the component that the shift rod connects to.
Please advise.

I also tried to take a photo of the connection but it's impossible with all the stuff in the way. My best effort is attached.

 

[tired evinrude]

Re: 1986 Johnson 70 Hp - shift rod disconnect for lower unit removal

pull the air box off then take the starter off 7/16 bolt holding the shift rod. push your throttle forward makes it easier to get to.

 

[ezeke]

Re: 1986 Johnson 70 Hp - shift rod disconnect for lower unit removal

According to the service manual and the parts diagram you have the release shown in the thumbnail (please click it).

To release the shift rod, pull the clip on the starboard end of #88 in the diagram. Then push #88 towards the port side. This moves #69 to port.

 

[HugoB]

Re: 1986 Johnson 70 Hp - shift rod disconnect for lower unit removal

Thanks ezeke, that worked.

 

[dbgotitans]

Re: 1986 Johnson 70 Hp - shift rod disconnect for lower unit removal

I have same problem on my 70hp, how did you get the pin to come out that goes thru shift rod??

 

[kmragy]

Re: 1986 Johnson 70 Hp - shift rod disconnect for lower unit removal

Ezeke - Thanks for the post. Still helping people 7 years later! Short but sweet. Best reply on this subject I found.

 

[tonedog]

Re: 1986 Johnson 70 Hp - shift rod disconnect for lower unit removal

According to the service manual and the parts diagram you have the release shown in the thumbnail (please click it).

To release the shift rod, pull the clip on the starboard end of #88 in the diagram. Then push #88 towards the port side. This moves #69 to port.

Have done this dozens of times but moving #69 to port does not disengage the linkage on my 1999 70hp Johnson. Read one blog that said I had to twist the linkage clockwise but I can't turn the linkage with my needlenose pliers (only tool that can fit in narrow access points. Had lower unit off 5-6 years ago but can't remember steps. Please help!

 

[Butakup]

Re: 1986 Johnson 70 Hp - shift rod disconnect for lower unit removal

Have done this dozens of times but moving #69 to port does not disengage the linkage on my 1999 70hp Johnson. Read one blog that said I had to twist the linkage clockwise but I can't turn the linkage with my needlenose pliers (only tool that can fit in narrow access points. Had lower unit off 5-6 years ago but can't remember steps. Please help!

HI I have a problem finding the linkage
I have a 1999 70 hp BJ70PLEEE motor and I just cannot find where to seperate the linkage the books tell me to look for a split pin or cotter pin below the swivel bracket at the front of the motor but all I see is the rod anyone who can help me with this