removal of lower unit from 1976 85 H.P. Johnson

[chum bucket]

I am having trouble removing a lower unit from a V four 85 H.P. Johnson.
I can get it to drop down about 3/4 of an inch. The shift rod is unhooked but it seems that the drive shaft is hanging it up.
Do I need to pull the fly wheel for any reason to let the lower unit come out freely. I don,t want to put to much pressure on it for fear of breaking something, What am I missing?
I am parting this Engine out, if anyone is interested in any parts.
Jake

 

[SparkieBoat]

Re: removal of lower unit from 1976 85 H.P. Johnson

if the shift rod is disconnected it could be hanging up make sure it is clear, foot should drop down easily with a little wiggle. I am not aware of anything else that could catch, but I do not work on motors that old so I am not sure, try getting a manual, they are very helpful.

 

[ezeke]

Re: removal of lower unit from 1976 85 H.P. Johnson

Once you have loosened the fulcrum screw, you still need to spread the fingers of the bellcrank in order to release the pin in the shiftrod.

If the driveshaft is stuck, remove the spark plugs so that someone can rotate the flywheel clockwise while you gently rock the lower unit side to side and back and forth.

You did get seven screws out of the lower unit, including the one for the trim tab and the one hiding above the trim tab?

 

[chum bucket]

Re: removal of lower unit from 1976 85 H.P. Johnson

Thanks for your reply. Yes got all the screws, I will remove plugs and try this method.