Can't get lower unit off.

[electric603]

I have a 1982 55hp Chrysler that I am trying to take the lower unit off of. I removed the six bolts that hold it on. It drops down about an inch and stops there. It feels like the shaft is stuck in the motor. This motor has been sitting for many years. Thank you for any advice.

 

[Frank Acampora]

If this is the one piece lower unit, dual carb engine, you must remove one side of the lower motor mount covers held by two Allen head bolts and detatch the shift rod. It will have a square aluminum block with a pin going through it, held by a very small cotter. Remove the cotter and slide out the pin. Now, the lower unit will drop.

I don't remember if there is a hidden mounting bolt inside the exhaust snout but if the lower unit is dropping about an inch, then the bolt is either removed or not there.

 

['82Glastron]

If you remove the lower motor mount cover as shown in the picture then you will have access to the shift linkage ( other picture ), you can then remove the bolt by turning it counter-clockwise and this should allow your lower end to drop free.

 

['82Glastron]

If you remove the lower motor mount cover as shown in the picture then you will have access to the shift linkage ( other picture ), you can then remove the connector by turning it counter-clockwise and this should allow your lower end to drop free.

 

[electric603]

Thank you Frank. I got it off. A couple of questions. The motor has been sitting for at least two years but the pump impeller looks good and is still very flexible. Should I replace it any way? Also the drive shaft has some scoring on it 6 or 8 inches up. Is there a bushing that it spins in that needs to be replaced? Last question, can I start the engine with the lower unit off for a few seconds just to see if it starts or should I put the lower unit on and hook up the ear muffs? Thanks for any more advice.

 

[electric603]

Bump

 

[jerryjerry05]

You don't know how old the impeller is?
Could be 10-15 years old???
Replace.
Yes you can start without the lower.
Just don't let it run too long.
You can use an old piece of hose with the end cut off and slide it right up on the pickup tube.
Just be careful the tube can be pulled out without too much pressure.
The early lowers need a special muff to run on the hose.
Run it in a big bucket.
Make sure the lower is about 2-3 inches over the cavitation plate.

 

[electric603]

Thanks Jerry, your definitely right, better safe than sorry. Good tip on the bucket also. Should I pull off the flywheel and clean the magneto?

 

[tater76]

I would but they rarely need it, and clean and gap the points while your there. I believe yours will have points if I remember correctly. When you reinstall the flywheel be sure to torque the nut down to spec or you will shear the flywheel key/woodruff pin/key when you try to start it.