Re: 1953-54 Evinrude.
No, actually changing the impeller is a simple job. While you're at the dealor picking up your new parts, you should get the Seloc Volume I, Evinrude/Johnson Outboard repair manual. It has a lot of helpful information on doing a tear down and rebuild, as well as tune-ups.
To start off with, there is an obround plate, at the lower side of the motor leg, held on with two screws. Once you remove that, then you can access the shift rod coupler. Take out the lower bolt.
Then remove the 7/16" bolts that hold the lower unit on to the motor leg and it should separate.
You will see a round housing, held down with 4 screws, where the drive shaft goes into the lower unit and this is where your impeller is located.
I hope this helps. Good Luck.
Leon
