Re: 1962 Johnson Fisherman (5.5) gearcase

[Don]

I’m confused again…Where is the wear? Between the lower driveshaft and the bottom of the upper seal bushing housing? Or, is the wear between the thrust face of the pinion and the mating surface on the gearcase housing?
I’m guessing it is the first scenario…If so, the upper seal/bushing housing dislodged when you pulled the water pump screws because the driveshaft shock spring has broken/been damaged forcing the lower driveshaft into the bottom of the bushing/seal housing damaging it…
Post some pictures to avoid any confusion….