Shift cable has been disconnected at the power head. There is no reason to remove the upper cable tube if you're not removing the powerhead. The cable will just slip out of the upper and lower tubes as you separate the 1/4" plate between the gearcase and midsection. I removed the four screws holding the 1/4" plate (two broke) and the 1/4" plate won't pry loose as if there were yet another bolt/nut/screw securing the plate to the midsection. Prying on the plate opens a .010 gap but as soon as pressure is released that gap closes. This doesn't seem right. Appreciate everyone's suggestions!
