1987 Johnson GT150 - Having trouble dropping lower unit for impeller change

[spencerkechi]

So we took the advice on another post in that we are replacing the impeller on our 1987 Johnson GT150 before our maiden voyage. I have looked at various videos on youtube on how to do this, and it does not appear difficult. But we have run into a small snag. After putting it in reverse and loosening the screw on the shift shaft, we are unable to get the lower unit to dislodge (and we have taken off every bolt). It appears to us that the shaft is still attached. Does the shift shaft screw have to come completely out in order to drop the lower unit? The videos we have seen just say to loosen it, not take it out. But even after a few good jerks on the lower unit, we cannot get that shaft to dislodge.

 

[kodibass]

Yes as far as I remember you have to remove it, or at least make sure the pin is out of the shift rod hole so the rod can drop down, I have done a few of these over the years & I always remove the pin, it's a bugger to get to, unless you remove the bottom carb, but with the correct tools can be done. kodi

 

[Hennysemitara]

Yes need to remove shift pin behind carbs use long screwdriver. Was a pita for me to put it back it wouldnt align with the shaft, then agian i didnt put it in reverse was in nutreal

 

[emdsapmgr]

Did you remove the trim tab on the gearcase? There are is another bolt hiding under the tab that has to come out too.

 

[spencerkechi]

That did it! And the impeller needed replaced for sure. We bought the part right here on iboats.com. Piece of cake.

 

[James R]

If the impeller is shot it could be an indication that the motor lacks good service. Too many motors have blown after changing hands because no one thought to rebuild the carbs. I can tell you stories, expensive ones.