Does any one know how to release the bottom shaft on a 1975 johnson 6hp outboard i need to access the impeller

Question

the bottom shaft after you release the bolts will only fall down about 3 inches how do i take it out completly please help

Answer 1

The shaft is the shift rod and does not remove from the bottom. After removing the bolts and dropping the lower unit down about 1 inch, look at the rod and you will see where it comes apart with a bolt/s***w. You might have to shift gear into forward or reverse to see more of this.  Be observant of waterpump housing tube on re assembly.  good luck

Answer 2

A few inches below the bottom of the motor is a small plate with 2 screws . remove the cover and under it is a retaining bolt holding the shifter shafts together. remove the bolt and the 2 shafts will separate allowing the lower unit ot come down. Put into neutral before doing this. If you can i would suggest you get a manual. Before removingthe impeller look to see which way the vanes point. Put new one in the same way.