How to remove lower unit 1997 bf8a -shift rod is stuck ???

[fishon71]

I removed 5 bolts on the bottom
I disconnected shift rod at the top
Shift rod will not pull down and slide thru mid section grommet - is there a trick or am I missing something?

 

[isaksp00]

Re: How to remove lower unit 1997 bf8a -shift rod is stuck ???

Did you just pull the clevis pin that holds the fitting at the top of the shift rod to the shift lever, or did you also unscrew that fitting from the rod? I think you have to do both, though unscrewing the fitting is not so convenient.

I changed my BF8AM impeller, but rather than entirely removing the LU, I left that fitting screwed to the top of the rod, and pulled the LU down about 8 inches or so (as far as it can go). I had the motor in a sort of stand, and let the LU skeg sit cradled in some boards to support it while I worked on it. Seemed a lot easier than trying to get a tool in to unscrew that fitting, without removing half the engine top parts to get access.

Or does anyone know a good tip (technique, use of a tool, etc.) to actually unscrew it, with the flywheel and all in place?

 

[fishon71]

Re: How to remove lower unit 1997 bf8a -shift rod is stuck ???

I looked up the explosion view of this and did see a nut on rod maybe for adjustment but where the heck do you get at it on the engine? I think the lower unit is bad on this one so I want to pull everything apart to inspect. I see what you mean if I just needed to do the water pump. Still need some advise - thanks

 

[isaksp00]

Re: How to remove lower unit 1997 bf8a -shift rod is stuck ???

Look at this page, which is one view of the parts:
http://www.boats.net/parts/search/Honda/Outboard%20Engine/1997/BF8AM%20LA%20OUTBOARD%20ENGINE%2C%20JPN%2C%20VIN%23%20BACL-1200001/EXTENSION%20CASE/parts.html
# 3 is the shift rod joint. If it is like mine, this part threads onto the top of the rod, and I think it has to be unscrewed from the rod to pull the lower unit all the way out. Because it is somewhat far back and under the flywheel, it will be tough to reach it. In case you don't have the shop manual, when you reinstall it: I believe they say that it should be screwed all the way down, and then backed off about 4 1/2 turns to be at the right height. My manual is not handy, so I can't check for sure.
Peter

 

[fishon71]

Re: How to remove lower unit 1997 bf8a -shift rod is stuck ???

I will have to take a closer look in the AM, looks like it might be a pain. I'm sure you will have to hold the rod with a vise grip and turn off the top connector. Seems to be pretty tight to get at.

 

[amazinggrace]

Re: How to remove lower unit 1997 bf8a -shift rod is stuck ???

Funny Thing I am having the same problem with a 1988 6hp 2 stroke. In my search I came across this video that did not help me but may work in your case.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n68sb7w-3Hw
If you folks have any clues as to how to disconnect my linkage so Ican simply drop my lower unit let me know.