Problems installing lower unit on 1998 150 EFI after changing inpeller

[jknoch1]

I have a 1998 Mercury 150 EFI that I just changed the impeller. Now I can't get the lower unit to completely re seat. I can get to within about an inch and it won't go any farther. All of the studs are lined up. The shaft seems to want to fit. The only thing that I can see is that the water tube might not be seating all the way into the water pump cover. Does anyone have any suggestions?

[boats.net]

Sometimes they can be difficult. You really have to make sure all tubes line up as well as the shift shaft. Sometimes if everything is lining up, you will need to spin motor will attempting to slide into place. This will align the driveshaft.