8 HP LOWER UNIT REMOVAL, 1997 Mercury

[Carter Powell]

I was given a 1997 Mercury 8 HP long shaft motor and I can't seem to get the lower unit off. There are only three bolts that hold the lower unit on. I removed those and I can pull the lower unit down about three inches and it won't come off any further. What am I missing.

Thanks, Carter Powell

[mn808gade]

shift shaft-must disconnect under carb aera

[Tomanytoys]

shift shaft-must disconnect under carb aera

... Look for a little black plastic clip, it's easiest to get to if you pull the carb.
Had the same problem when I pulled the case on a 25 Mariner.

[kcoleman10]

How did you ever make out with this lower unit. I have a 8hp that I cannot get the lower unit off. I was cleaning carb and while I had that off I unhooked shift shaft under the carb and still won't drop out through midsection.

[perfmarine1]

You also need to remove sm clamp half way down midsection that allows motor to kick up or not!!!!! I t clamps around shift shaft.