Putting back lower unit

[Gradywhite3535]

I have a 2003 yamaha 130 txrb.I had to replace my water pump impeller. Iam going to be putting the lower unit back on tomorrow but have a quick question. Right now the boat is in neutral and the lower unit is in neutral. I wanted it to be in gear just in case the drive shaft doesn't line up I could turn the prop a little. Can I put the boat in reverse or forward at the helm and then put the lower unit in F or R? Which one would be better and on the lower unit shifter do I turn it or pull it up or push down? Thank you

 

[JKTrevecca]

F or R would work fine. You could also leave it in neutral and just rotate the flywheel to get the drive shaft lined up. That might be easier with a helper, however.

 

[Doh]

You don't have to move the prop shaft. Just swinging the Lower Unit side to side can line up the splines before the dole pins line up.