25hp disconnect shift linkage/replace water pump

[jaketribble]

Have a 1998 25hp Mercury outboard that needs water pump impeller replaced. How do you disconnect the shift linkage so you can drop the propeller housing and replace water pump impeller?

[boats.net]

Have to loosen the coupling nut that joins upper shift shaft to lower, it's just above lower motor mount.

[jaketribble]

Parts diagram does not show details of a coupler located there. Do you remove the motor mount to gain access to this coupler?

[jaketribble]

Retainer clip/pin is located under cowl behind starter solenoid on starter side of motor. Once this retainer is unclipped and removed, shift rod will be released allowing propellor housing to be removed downward from driveshaft housing assembly giving full access to replace water pump impellor.
Project completed in less than one hour.