Trouble reinstalling lower unit

[MKI212]

Replaced water pump and seals on Yamaha 1990 225 hp, the lower unit goes back together all but about 1 inch. When I move the shift rod out of the way it seems to go together all the way. Could I have it in the wrong gear, and how can I check this? I thought it was in neutral, but when I turn the prop shaft the drive shaft rotates. Thanks for helping,
Mike

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Trouble reinstalling lower unit

its slipped from N to an in gear position. if you dont have the shift rod tool a 12 pt 1/4 drive socket11/32 I think, will work.
if you must use pliers grab it low on the splines and dont damage them
the splines look symetrical but are NOT.

 

[MKI212]

Re: Trouble reinstalling lower unit

rodbolt,
Didn't have a socket, so used a pair of channellocks like you said and after I got it in neutral it went right together. Thanks for your help, saved me from maybe doin something stupid.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Trouble reinstalling lower unit

like putting in a bolt and forcing the unit up?
that I have seen tried, never with good results