HELP! Shift Connector

[Travis Wallace]

Just replaced the impeller in my 1960 Johnson 40. This motor has a two-piece shift rod. Access panel on side of midsection allowed me to remove the connector's bottom screw and pull off the lower unit. Any tricks on how to get the end of this rod back into the connector's hole? I know it's important to align the notch with the set screw, but I can't get the rod into the hole at all, never mind "lining it up." Any help would be most appreciated; thank you!

 

[fdrgator]

Won't go in because it is too tight? Or won't go in because it doesn't reach? If because too tight, simply stick a screwdriver or something into the slotted connector and spread it open a tad. If won't reach, manipulate the gear shifter and/or the lower rod position (pull up on lower rod and/or put shifter in reverse). Remember, the lower rod may not move without giving the prop a twirl.

 

[Travis Wallace]

My problem (that particular one, anyway) is solved. I had to open the connector. I mistakenly expected the rod to easily go back in the same hole it came out of. I'm clearly a newbie, lol. Thank you for your response!