Any idea how I disconnect the shift rod in my 2006 Merc 40HP ELPTEFI

I have changed impellors in the past as it was pretty straight forward. Disconnect the linkage rod (usually a threaded rod that ran parallel to the drive shaft, then you remove the 5 bolts and you're off to the races. I just pulled my 'new to me' boat out of storage and was left scratching my head looking at my motor in my driveway.......I cannot see where I disconnect the shift linkage.

After doing some research I 'think' it is disconnected under the cowling. Can anyone offer an electrician (trying to do mechanical work) some advice on how to do this. Pictures would be a great help!! Last thing I want to do is screw this up - LOL

Thanks,

John

Can you see the shift rod along the forward side Of the lower unit, right under the transom mount? I changed the impeller in my mariner, using a You Tube video. There are tons of videos for different motors.

No......the shift rod is under the lower end cowling.........it somehow gets disconnected from up top

Don't know if this will help but my 07 50hp dis-connects at a jam nut just under the lower pivot, you have to move the shifter to get to it.Attachment 32906Attachment 32907

Here is a pic of my lower end.....there is no connecting rod.

Attachment 32930

Just spoke to a mechanic.........the 4 stroke EFI does not have a shift rod that moves up and down. It is a cam that twists and the connecting rod is a spline.

Go on You Tube & search your question.
Good chance you'll find a video showing it being done.

Spent 3 hrs searching and found squat

I only suggest to follow the shift linkage from the shift on the handle(tiller) or where the remote cable goes into the cowl. Somewhere under the cowl towards the front is where that cam/gear rod is rotated. You may have to lift the cam and gear off the rod. flashlight helps.