Mercury Outboard pump question

[Capt Kangeroo]

Any of you guys familiar with the water pumps on the small older mercs. Mine is 7.5 hp, 1976 vintage.

Question is, after the top of the pump and impeller is removed, your left with the lower housing and the stainless steel bowl within it. I understand the bowl comes out but how? there is nothing to grab it with. The other issue is I can't get the lower housing off, it looks like it should just pry up but won't budge. I need to replace entire assembly.

Any ideas/help?

 

[Capt Kangeroo]

I got it off finally. I realize this is not the best forum to post this question but those with older Mercs on their tender may find the info useful.

The problem was that the lower water pump housing does not simply sit on top of the casting, it has a sleeve with an O-ring on the bottom that actually plugs into the casting, this serves as the oil seal preventing water from getting into the lower unit.

In my case the lower housing was severely stuck down by dried grease. Tapping with a wood block while pulling up did the trick.

Solution compliments of those friendly folk at marineengine. com