Lower Unit Removed, snap ring fell out around drive shaft?

[cchildress142]

I just bought a 1965 Johnson 40 HP. I removed the lower unit for the first time to install a new impeller and water pump. When I dropped the lower unit a snap ring came out that it's laying around the driveshaft. When I look at the column for the driveshaft it looks like a washer is up in there laying loose and turn sideways. How do I reinstall the snap ring to the right place. Sorry guys, I'm just learning on outboard repairs. Any help would be great!

 

[racerone]

I believe the parts are from the lower crankshaft seal assembly.-----Powerhead should be removed for inspection and repair of that item.

 

[F_R]

Very important that you deal with that. It is the retainer for the lower crankshaft seal. Sorry, but the powerhead has to come off. Really not all that big a job. When you put the snap ring back on, note that one side has sharp edges, other side has slightly rounded edges. Side with the sharp edges goes down---toward the lower unit. If installed upside down, it may pop off---as it would seem it did.