Issues after impeller change. Gears seem off. Pee's fine now

[NeWcS]

2001 75hp ELPTO

So I changed the impeller on my outboard and think I have an issue.
I put the motor in forward before removing the 5 nuts. Took the lower unit off and replaced the impeller and gaskets from a kit I bought.,
Had a hell of a time getting the unit back on. Put the shifter into reverse, and it went right in. However...Before doing the change; when I was in neutral, the prop would spin freely. Now when in 'N' there is a clicking with resistance. (see video) It seems to be coming from this part. (see pics) Not sure what it is but I never touched it. My guess is it has something to do with removing the lower unit while in forward and reinstalling it in reverse?

I hooked the motor up to water-muffs and everything seems to be working correctly. The prop spins slowly in 'N' and I seem to have 'F' and 'R'. But I feel like something is wrong.

I have a trip planned for the weekend and can't afford getting to the lake only to find out I screwed something up.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you(s)

ps: Pee's water just fine.

 

[Chris1956]

It sounds like you do not have the upper and lower shift shafts properly aligned. very common issue.

Remove the gearcase. Set the control to neutral. I ratcheting sound as the prop is turned CW is forward gear. if so, carefully turn the shift rod on the gearcase CCW, using a crescent wrench, until she "clicks" into neutral, and the propshaft turns freely.

Install the gearcase. You may need to rock the throttle handle a bit to align the shift shafts.