35 Force Impeller Access?

[jbooras]

I'm trying to access the cooling water impeller on a '87 Force 35HP outboard. But I can't figure out how to disconnect the linkage so I can remove the lower unit.
Thanks.

 

[roscoe]

Re: 35 Force Impeller Access?

Loosen the 4 bolts that hold the gearcase on.
Drop the gearcase an inch or so.
There is a cotter pin holding the shift rod coupler together.
Remove the cotter pin.
Remove the coupler pin.

 

[jbooras]

Re: 35 Force Impeller Access?

Thanks Roscoe, that worked. We probably wouldn't have found that little pin without your guidance. Bad news though - the engine still won't run. We couldn't find the source of the original overheating problem. Replaced the impeller and head gasket. Getting good spark and the engine spins fine without the plugs. As soon as it's under load though, it just chugs a couple of times and won't start. Apparently something is binding up inside. Possibly frozen bearings in crankshaft or connecting rods? A friend told me to check the timing.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.