At 7:05 AM this morning I got it to go in. Turning the engine by hand allowed the shaft-motor splines to get aligned and it popped right in. Now all I need to do is get the gosh dang it shift shaft to go into its proper spot as it is completely out of its recess.
My new to me 1983 50 HP needed a new impeller. I bought the real MERCURY parts kit and replaced it all. A friend and I can not get the lower unit all the way in. There is a solid metal to metal clunk leaving about a 3/4"gap and it will not move further. The side bolts are not protruding...
