Re: Merc 15hp Impeller Replacement
The shift rod extends all the way up into the lower cowling of the powerhead. Look inside and you'll see the shifting linkage. On the Port (left) side of the motor near the carb, you'll see a a locking lever/pin assy which pulls up, then outwards to release the shift shaft.
Check out this illustration which shows the shift linkage on a typical 15hp:
http://www.mercruiserparts.com/Show...1401&bnbr=40&bdesc=Throttle+and+Shift+Linkage
Piece #30 in the illustration is what you're looking for. This engages into piece #31 and captures the end of the shift shaft.
If that doesn't do the trick for your motor, look up your particular year/model by Ser # at the mercruiserparts.com site.
HTH...........ed