Reply To: 1956 Evinrude 15 HP Stuck Driveshaft

[Don]

Well, this is a tough situation for sure.  It is usually best to remove the powerhead firts.  Trying to clamp/pull the driveshaft from down below the exhaust hsg usuall results in damage to the driveshaft seal/bearing surfaces.

I have had success clamping the driveshaft in a vice with the powerhead hanging upside down.  Then using a soft pry bar, and an air hammer on the driveshaft up close to the splines usually frees things up.  Be careful to support the powerhead adequately so it doesn’t just fall on the floor when the splines free up.  Using a torch might cause issues with the lower seal/bearing, so I usually don’t use the torch.  If your engine has the carbon seal set up on the lower crank, it might be best to remove it before beginning, so it doesn’t get broken in the process.