Reinstalling driveshaft 1964 evinrude fastwin 18

[bravo11]

After resealing the lower unit and replacing the impeller I now cannot get the lower unit/driveshaft into the powerhead. Made a very bad rookie mistake by moving not only the driveshaft but the powerhead as well. Have tried several "fixes" no luck. Without going through them does anyone have any suggestions as to the easiest way to fix this. The first to come to mind is "You're screwed!". Thanks for time and help. JJ

P.S. I think I was told not to grease the upper splines of the d/s...it that correct? Thx.

 

[Don Hansen]

Take the spark plugs out and have someone turn the flywheel slowly by hand while you hold the lower unit so the drive shaft presses against the crank. Always works for me.

You always grease the splines so they don't rust. You might be thinking of no grease on the top end of the drive shaft or it will not be able to go all the way into the crank.

DLH

 

[bravo11]

Thank you. Was thinking of removing the plugs for compression but your confirmation seals that. Also, makes sense about the grease. Thanks again. JJ

 

[F_R]

Hate to suggest this, but is the impeller drive in in the impeller, or is it above the water pump housing? Well, you did say "rookie".