Water impeller job and shift rod

[Robalod3valles]

Hi there!
I have a 96 Johnson 88 hp, I have to replace the water impeller, so I have to remove the lower gear unit. I got all bolts loose but I have to disconnect the shift rod linkage. The problem is that I cannot find the exact location to disconnect the linkage. I move the linkage to reverse and the unit seemed to separate more, but the rod must be disconnected in order to work on the water pump. Does anybody know how to takle this problem? is there a trick to it? Any special tool for this? Please help , I want to use my boat this year!
Thanks!

 

[Vic.S]

Re: Water impeller job and shift rod

One piece shift rod which has to be disconnected at the top. Hidden under the carbs!

 

[bills2004svt]

Re: Water impeller job and shift rod

You should see a pull type clip next to the shift and throttle cables in the moto left side if looking from the front. Pull the clip with needle nose pliers and push the assembly to the port side that will relese the shift rod. On a side note tighen the bolts back up before you release the shift rod so when it does release the unit dosent fall.

 

[Robalod3valles]

Re: Water impeller job and shift rod

Thanks for your help, i'll try that!