Re: 35hp 1986 Merc lower unit stuck (external waterpump?)
Finally, I got it to drop...2/15/03.<br /><br />To get it started I used the main three studs holding the lower unit up (1986 35hp Merc). I stacked some washers on top of the two forward stud's lock nuts, wedging them between upper housing unit, then backed lock nuts out pushing against upper housing, and at the same time wedged a ratchet extension with socket between rear lower stud lock nut top and housing/propeller (protected by a 1" x 2" piece of wood). I then backed out lock nuts (back them out slowly and evenly so to not distort or break anything). I kept repeating the above adding spacers/washers as lower unit dropped.<br />When I couldn't back out nuts any more, I used wood wedges, two ax heads and two crow bars wedged one under the other to make a parallel and even lift. Also, everything was placed strategically between upper and lower unit gap where it was the strongest (look for internal structural support not relying on thin walls only). <br /><br />It was a slow process...take your time and be patient...at the onset I was hurrying and broke a chip out of one of the fins...to the welder I go... <br /><br />Fred
