putting on lower unit on a 60hp merc

[big ken]

hi i put in a new water pump on my motor, the shifting pawl is keeping the unit from going all the way up. what gear does it have to be in? thanks ps it is i believe an 1985 or 86

 

[jims plan b]

Re: putting on lower unit on a 60hp merc

are you sure it is the shifter that is holding you up ? if i rember how i use to do it was to put it in gear at the shifter and using vice grips and a rag i would put the lower unit in gear as well so i could turn the shaft to help it aline

 

[big ken]

Re: putting on lower unit on a 60hp merc

im pretty sure it is. i took it apart in neutral, when putting it up i had to turn flywheel just a little and make sure water tube was aligned, then very slowly tighten up on two of the nut making sure not to force it. when i got it all the way it wouldnt shift. so maybe i will drop it and put in geat like you said. thanks