1983 35hp Evinrude. how do I replace the clutch dog?

[SparkieBoat]

I got a 1983 35HP Evinrude E35ECTS. I got the bearing carrier out and the snap ring and the big washer, but to my surprise the shifter thingy is blocking me from being able to pull the prop shaft and forward gear out. there is a little pin on the bottom of the shifter thingy that is going around the prop shaft. surely I am not going to have to get that little pin out down inside the casing?? I just want to replace the clutch dog. Is there and easy way to get to it??

 

[racerone]

The shift rod screw into that " thingy "---So unscrew the lower shift rod and it all falls apart !

 

[SparkieBoat]

thanks a bunch Racer, I just did not want to do it the hard way, which is usually my approach. lol