1961 Johnson 40 Pivot Pin

[JDusza]

Hi.
I am working on a 1961 Johnson 40 hp, model and serial unknown.
I mistakenly removed the pivot pin from the lower gear case thinking it was the drain plug and I cannot get it back in place.
Should I be able to get it back in without opening up the gear case? Any hints or tips?
Thank you,
J

 

[F_R]

Let the oil out and look in the hole with a flashlight. Are the screw hole and hole in the shifter fork anywhere near in alignment? If so, you are in luck, and the pin will go in. Hint: Grind or file a chisel-like bevel on the end of the pin. Now when you insert it into the not-so-well aligned holes and rotate the pin, the pointy end will move the fork into position and the pin will slip on in. Than give thanks.

 

[JDusza]

Thank you, F_R. There is a bevel on the end of the pin that looks like it's from the factory. I did try your suggestion without success, but, try, try again, as they say. I figured it must be something that can be done from the outside since they put the screw there...
Cheers!
J

 

[Chris1956]

Wiggle the shifter arm, while using an awl or nail to find the hole in the shift cradle. You should then be able to line it up.