Johnson 6hp impeller - more info needed!! Can't get linkage out?

Question

I took the power head off and I see the linkage but I'm still at a loss on how to get the lower unit off. Its a jbend (the actual rod that runs down the exhaust housing) shifter linkage that I don't believe will make it all the way down the housing....man its a lot of work just to replace a little starfish.....

Answer 1

2 nuts...loosen.  the shaft comes out of the square block.  if i'm wrong, pull the lower unit down while shifting into reverse.  you should see a brass coupler.  remove one of the screws and it will come loose.  if that's the case, excuse me please.  i'm old and senile!

Answer 2

Must those you put in foward gear drop the lower unit about 11/2 in the front look inside there a brass block connected to the shift rod take the bolt out of the bottom and the lower unit comes off>>It should take about a hour to change water pumps>

Answer 3

on my Johnson 48 you took the starter off to get to the bolts