Problem with Johnson V6-150HP lower-end.

[Seafoy]

We have a Johnson V6 150HP outboard [J150TLCURR7495495.... we think its 1987]with a problem on the lower end. Clunking noise inside and metal fragments came out with gear-oil. We are trying to remove the bottom end to investigate further but having removed bolts and lowered bottom-end about an inch or so, it still seems to be hung up. Is there some trick/knack to getting the bottom end[gearbox] seperated fully. We have no Service manual. Also we are not sure if this engine is considered a 'long-shaft' or not.? How would we check that.? Or does the number above give that info.?
Thank You..

[boats.net]

Did you disconnect shift shaft? The shift shaft has to disconnected at shift linkage thats located under the carbs on engine.