04 merc 25 hp water pump

[DRICH]

I want to change out my water pump. I removed the 4 mounting bolts for the lower case. It dropped down but I can't figure out how to undo the shift rod and don't want to break anything. I could use any insite on the one. Thanks

[Me Too]

I'd be interested too. I spent an entire afternoon trying to figure it out. Must be a special tool or something needed???

[DRICH]

I found where you have to disconnect the linkage at. It is behind the stater. The rod goes all the way up into the motor cowling. I just removed the keeper and pin. Then dropped out the unit. I had to remove the starter to get at it.