1999 Opti 200 DFI- trying to replace the Water pump. Have, 4 bolts off (2 both sides), zinc removed and bolt next to zinc. Lower Unit will not drop. Anyone have advice, or am I missing something.
Probably missing something... remove the trim tab and look for a bolt "under" it.
Lay down and look up at the lower end and you might see a bolt you missed.
When you get to the last one the lower end should start coming down a bit as you loosen it. It may fall all the way off when that bolt comes out so I'd tie it off so you can control it.
It may stick a bit and need GENTLE assistance getting it to come down. If it seems to need anything more than tapping with a wood mallet, it means something is not disconnected. (like the shift linkage)
Thanks FHHuber. I can't see any other possible nuts to remove. I am able to get 2mm of separation from the exhaust housing, but that's it. Is there a way to "manually" manipulate the shift linkage?
Thanks!
Gee, The V6 Mercs including Optimax that I have seen (newer and older than your motor) have 5 nuts and a bolt holding the gearcase. Check the very front of the gearcase for a nut on top.
Chris 1956, thanks. So to start over, here is what I have removed. The zinc, the bolt next to the zinc, the two bolts on each side of the gear case, making a total of six removed. I see none up front near the gear case you are speaking of. I get slight separation but seems to be hung up.
Well, The V6 gearcases I have seen (including Optimax) have a nut on top of the antiventilation plate in the front, two nuts on top, a bit behind that, two nuts recessed under the antiventilation plate and a bolt hidden under the zinc anode.
That pattern is the same on my neighbors early 2000s150HP Optimax, as well as my 1993 135HP V6. I would expect your 200HP Merc to be the same....
