Lower unit stuck

[KeysSailor]

Im trying to drop the lower unit on my 2005 Honda bfp15d. I've separated the shift linkage nut and removed the five nuts that secure the unit in place. I can separate the lower unit and shaft extender about one inch but can't get it beyond that. Any ideas on how to get the lower unit off the rest of the way? I must be missing something. I'm trying to get to the water pump to replace the impeller. Thanks.