1984 Johnson 90 lower unit removal

[madbassist42]

Hi all,
I've been trying for the last few days to remove the lower unit of my 1984 johnson 90 to replace the impeller.
I have found all the bolts, and removed them, but the unit only drops about 1 1/2 inches and then won't drop anymore. I've read that the shifter linkage needs to be removed, and I've tried taking everything related to the shifter on the starboard side off, but nothing works.
Any advice?
Thanks!

 

[jchristi]

Re: 1984 Johnson 90 lower unit removal

This is most likely in the front and center of your powerhead at the bottom. Have someone move the shifter while you watch and you can see the piece move. There is a rod that connects to it that goes down into your lower unit. I usually remove the lower unit with it in gear so that you can spin the prop to turn the driveshaft to help it align when re-installing.

 

[DJ]

Re: 1984 Johnson 90 lower unit removal

Put the lower unit back up into position.

Shift it into reverse.

Remove the screw that goes through the shift rod. It is under the bottom carb. A 1/4" drive swivels works well.

 

[madbassist42]

Re: 1984 Johnson 90 lower unit removal

Thanks for the replys!
Is the screw that goes through the shift rod on the port or starboard side?

 

[ryguy1101]

Re: 1984 Johnson 90 lower unit removal

access the screw from starboard side.

 

[madbassist42]

Re: 1984 Johnson 90 lower unit removal

Thanks everyone! It was indeed the shift rod screw that was holding it back. A little bit of a pain getting the rod screwed back in, but patience and a long screwdriver prevailed!
Thanks again!