I've order a replacement gearcase cover for an 85hp force (1989). I got the replacement part (FK721706) from the engine model number and appropriate diagram pictures. However, it turns out that my orginal shift rod is different from the one that was sent. I orginally had a two piece shift rod, but the cover kit came with a single rod to replace the orginal two. Long story short, my orginal shift rod will not unscrew or release from the coupling. After reading some material I thought I would be able to disconnect the coupling and pull the shift rod and coupling out of the lower unit to free the shift rod. This did not work as the coupling is too big to pull up the shift rod hole. So my delima is now is that I may have to take a part the propeller shaft to work on the shift rod and coupling. Does anyone have any advice or experience regarding this problem. Should I have a professional do this repair, or is this something that can easily taken on.
