1996 Evinrude 50 hp 3 cyl shift rod

[mike-wi]

I have #E50ttledc and need help with disconnecting the shift rod for water pump service. My OEM service manual says there are 2 different styles.
1 - If equipped, remove the shift rod screw - A (pictured).
2- If equipped, pull the retaining pin - B from the shift lever(pictured). Push the shift lever toward the powerhead to disengage the shift rod.

My engine does not have a retaining pin- just a very small cotter pin. So I assume I need to access the shift rod screw. I can not even see the connecting block(#48) or the screw(#26). I think i need to remove the silencer cover and maybe the fuel pump to access the screw.
Am I on the right track??
Thanks.

 

[racerone]

Stop----Your engine should have the hitch pin.----Remove that pin.----Post the shift arm all the way to the port side and rotate slightly.-----Shift rod will be disconnected.----Might need an assistant to push on the shift rod under the cowling.-----When you are done you will say " wow , that was easy "----Just a pair of pliers required for this job !----Do not turn the shift rod during this work.

 

[mike-wi]

Thanks for the response.
I definitely do not have a hitch pin. It is a tiny cotter pin.
As I stated my service manual says there are 2 options.
According to the OEM manual, I have to remove the shift rod screw which I can't see without removing parts.

 

[racerone]

My mistake.----That year 3 cylinder 50 HP may be the exception.----Remove starter motor.----Have your assistant slowly put it in forward.-----Turn prop with your foot.-----You should then see the pin to take out

 

[racerone]

Strange that the 3 cylinder 50 appears to have a different set-up then the 3 cylinder 70 HP models.----Same block and all.----The 3 cylinder 70 has used the hitch pin method from about 1988 or so.

 

[mike-wi]

Strange that the 3 cylinder 50 appears to have a different set-up then the 3 cylinder 70 HP models.----Same block and all.----The 3 cylinder 70 has used the hitch pin method from about 1988 or so.

Yes, the 50 HP 3 cylinder does have the same block as the 60 & 70.
I was on the road today and stopped at an Evinrude dealer. The mechanic took me out in the yard and we pulled the cover off a 70. It had the hitch pin set up, don't know what year. He said if I don't have the hitch pin to pull the silencer cover and move the fuel pump out of the way. He thought I should be able to get to the connecting block and screw as described and pictured in my service manual. Just can't see it.
Also, I know removing the starter on the 3 cylinder does not give access, that only works on the 2 cylinder models.
So I believe I am ready to tackle this tomorrow. I still may have more questions, as I have an updated water pump kit and thermostat spring upgrade that is not covered in my service manual.
Thanks again for the response.