Lower unit won't drop on a 1987 Johnson 50

[jwcole04]

I'm making my first attempt at changing the impeller. I've removed the brass shift connector and the 5 bolts holding the lower unit, but contrary to youtube videos I've watched, it still won't drop. Can anyone tell me what I'm missing?

 

[racerone]

Brass shift connector ??------There is only a threaded pin below the starter to remove.----Did you remove the trim tab?

 

[saltchuckmatt]

If you did the above, when was the last time it was removed?

Every hear of a stuck driveshaft?

 

[Crosbyman]

hopefully not the "first attempt" to replace the impeller in 37 years...

Drive shaft spines could be rusted in solid :-(

salt water engine or fresh water ?