Lower Unit 1999 55HP Removal

[DeepDiver]

Trying to replace the impeller on a 55 HP Johnson outboard, J55WRLEES. Working to drop the lower unit and I have removed the 5 bolts on the lower unit and disconnected the shift rod under the carb, but still wont drop down. Lower unit will move a little bit side to side but thats all. Any suggestions on how to get the lower unit off?

[boats.net]

Did you get bolt under trim tab out?

[DeepDiver]

Trim Tab

Thanks for the feedback, yes I removed the bold from the trim tab. Been working on the engine still not budging. I can wiggle the lower unit side to side but it wont drop. Ugh! Its killing me not to be out diving right now, the ocean is nice and flat. Thanks for any suggestions!

[boats.net]

The drive shaft splines may be corroded or rusted to crankshaft, if so then no easy way to get off without breaking a housing. Try spraying PB Blaster on driveshaft, should be able to get to by steering arm.

[DeepDiver]

Thanks for the feedback, that is what I was afraid of...I seem to have no access to the drive shaft, this engine is with a tiller (is that different?), so not sure how to get access to the drive shaft?

[DeepDiver]

I think I realized what you are talking about, to get access to the drive shaft from the steering arm shaft assembly?