Pulling engine - need help with transmission disconnect

[kenimpzoom]

Mercruiser 228 in a 1980 Chris Craft 17 ft inboard. I have been told it’s a Paragon transmission. I am trying to pull the engine out and I can’t get the trans to separate from engine. I have it about 1/4 inch gap all around and doesn’t seem to want to go more.

How does the flywheel and such go together. Is it like a car transmission where there are bolts to loosen? Or is it just splined?

Thanks, Ken

 

[kenimpzoom]

Pics

 

[kenny nunez]

The flex plate is rusted to the transmission shaft. Look in the hole where the starter mounts, remove the bolts mounting the plate to the flywheel. Then unbolt the flywheel housing from the rear of the engine. if you need to remove the flex plate you will need to cut it off with a cutting torch.
Been there, done that.

 

[dubs283]

Looks like you've gone pretty far with a teardown. Might want to remove the entire package and tackle the trans removal on the floor

 

[kenimpzoom]

Thanks for tip on removing starter. There are bolts holding the trans spinning part to flywheel. They were easily accessible after starter removed. FYI I’m a shade tree mechanic.