Lower Unit

[texaz]

How do I drop the lower unit? I removed the bolts, it dropped about 2 inches, but will not drop any farther. Help!<br />I have a 1997 Johnson 115 HP.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Lower Unit

You have to disconnect the shift linkage, too. I don't know if yours has a pin or a bolt to disconnect. Look under the lower carb...

 

[Walker]

Re: Lower Unit

I think your motor has a 2 piece cowling pan. 2 3/8" bolts in front, 2 in back. Split the pan and you can see the shift rod connection under the lower carbs like rick said. Put one bolt back in the lower unit and snug it up to take the stress off the shift rod. Then you can disconnect the shift rod.

 

[ob]

Re: Lower Unit

To add to the above,your engines shift rod coupler is the split type that will require disconnecting the shift arm from the cable clevis and removal of the shift arm hitch pin.This will allow you to push the shift arm to 'port' which will separate the coupler from the shift rod.<br /><br />If you are dropping the lower unit for waterpump or seal service ,insure that you don't accidently alllow the shift rod to rotate from it's original position during the lower unit service as it will change its length and cause shift linkage problems on reassembly.