How to get the lower unit off a 5hp Yamaha

[landonshaw]

Bought a new 5 hp Yamaha, now to fix the old.
The 5HP Yamaha stopped and I imagined it was the impeller, when cool, I started it again. Engine started easily and turned it off immediately.. Water was not spitting out of the engine.
I believe the impeller is bad. I dislocated the shift clamp and unscrewed the two bolts on the lower unit. Tapped the lower unit and it came down maybe a eighth inch. Will not move from there. It is freely moving up and down that eighth of an inch.
I am guessing the rod is froze up in the top. I have the engine hanging now in hopes that gravity will help????
Any idea on how to break it loose? Possible a wedge in the opening on each side and try to pry it apart.

[ranger58sb]

You might at least find parts and diagrams at boats.net...

-Chris

[landonshaw]

I have the diagrams and the new impeller. I have had it off before and when it disconnects, it is a very easy item to change, Just can't get it off this time.