I just did a 2000 10hp 4 stroke (20") & the tube pulled out enough for the grommet to become loose between & not go back on.
I simply unbolted the assembly at the upper edge of the 5" extension (bolts #64), slipped the nipple back onto the top of tube & reassembled.
I also spun the driveshaft with a drill & got all sorts of water flow.
Here is the parts diagram for that motor. I see no difference other than #67 instead of #68. What does he have to loose other that a few minutes of time.
Maybe you can get the tube to slip back in, IDK. I simply unbolted at the upper flange. Same amount of work, still need to pull the clip from the shift lever & remove 6 bolts. The copper tube is straight, no curves.