Shift rod 70 hp Johnson

[Rusty rudder]

Trying to replace the impeller on a 1976 Johnson 70 HP I have the lower unit unbolted but looks like the shift rod is holding things up my question is what's the best way to unbolt it can hardly see where it bolts up.thinking bout a universal on a socket but not sure how I would get it back together any information will help.

 

[Retired OG]

I think you need to remove the air silencer and the starter...maybe the fuel pump?? I just did mine a couple weeks ago...sorry about the short memory.