shift rod coupler RD-15A

[oldlure]

RD-15A My next challenge is reinstalling the lower unit. This is a newly acquired boat and motor and the lower unit was already off as previous owner was resealing the gearcase and never reinstalled it before he passed away. This motor does not have the side access cover to the coupler. Access is between the sections and there is not much room.This early coupler is round and does not look like the bolt hole intersects the hole for the shift rod although it is close. The shift rod does have the normal detent. I do not believe I could remove the bolt before installing the rod as I think there is only room between the sections for a screw driver to tighten the bolt. I plan to hang the lower unit with longer bolts to hold it close to position and try with needle nose pliers to shove the rod into the coupler. I have considered removing the coupler and installing it on the lower section rod first but then don’t think I could reach the upper screw. Shifter is in the position that has the coupler at its lowest point. Lower rod is also pushed down otherwise coupler just pushes it down on contact.
Am I missing anything? Any tips?
How far must the shift rod go into the connector?

[frankr]

With shifter in reverse (rod down) and gearcase in forward (rod up) there should be ample room to assemble the connector. Assemble it to the upper rod first. It is vitally important that the notch in the rod is perfectly aligned with the screw hole in the coupler before inserting the screw or the threads will strip. You can slightly spread the coupler with a flat screwdriver if necessary, but usually all you need is a pair of needle nose pliers to “adjust” the alignment. They used that coupler system for ages, even going back to no access door in later years, so it IS possible..

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