How do I disconnect shifter linkage on 50 HP Mariner, bolting is loose, shifter appears to be stuck. ?

Question

I am trying to replace the water pump impeller on a '96 50 HP 4 stroke Mariner. I have already disconnected the bolts holding the lower unit (LU) on (2 bolts each side and 1 nut under the steering zinc). The LU will drop until it gets caught on the shifter linkage. The shifter lever will move from forward (where it is when I start to lower the LU) to reverse thereby giving it a little more room to travel but then gets hung up. I read the shifting linkage is splined and comes right out but that is not the case here. Did I miss a bolt? Should I wedge it out? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

try looking through ...boats.net...they have extremely helpful diagrams in their parts catalog, always helps to have a picture..i recently repaired the trans. gears in my 60 horse johnson, especially helpful if ur like me and don't know what ur doin....

Answer 2

The shifting rod does have a splined end so I am only guessing but you

will probably find that it is only stuck,so you will need to pry it loose.

There is probably a little rust that has them stuck.When you do get it off make sure you clean it up and put a little grease on it before you reassemble it.Also don't forget to have it in forward gear for assembly.I

hope this helps and good luck.