'96 25 hp Johnson shift rod connector - unable to remove

[Jaymack]

I am in the process of trying to replace the water pump on my 25hp Johnson. I have removed the water intake screens disconnected the coupler and dropped the lower unit. Instructions say to then remove the upper connector from the shift rod. This will allow the lower unit to drop completely. After several different attempts I am unable to remove the upper connector. Any suggestions?

 

[Walker]

Re: '96 25 hp Johnson shift rod connector - unable to remove

Push the upper nut up the shaft. This will reveal a split nylon keeper. Remove the keeper from the shaft and the upper nut will then slide off. Re-assemble in reverse order.

 

[Jaymack]

Re: '96 25 hp Johnson shift rod connector - unable to remove

Thanks for the tip Walker. I just tried sliding the nut up the shaft and am having problems getting it to slide upward. With a wrench on it it will turn of course but pretty tight. It feels like its turning against a rubber bushing inside. I have not figured out a way to apply upward pressure to the nut to get it slide up the shaft so I can get to the nylon keeper underneath.

 

[Jaymack]

Re: '96 25 hp Johnson shift rod connector - unable to remove

Was able to finally get the top nut up the shaft by putting some spacers in place and lightly prying with a screwdriver. Once exposed, the nylon keeper was easy to remove. After that the pump rebuild went smoothly. Thanks for the time and advice. I definitely would still be there without it and maybe with something broken due to aggravation.