I have a 1985 Yamaha 70 etlk. the prop shaft is off by .02" (i measured w dial indicator). i have already tried the pipe trick on the shaft to bend it back w no luck. i even tried putting an 8 ft extension for extra leverage while watching the dial indicator. i could get it to move, but it would never hold (i haven't used heat on shaft because i am under the impression that it is an alloy that will be severely weakened if heated and bent). instead of paying someone to tear it apart, i am acquiring the tools needed so I can learn something in the process. I have purchased the year, make, model specific service manual (genuine Yamaha), and have the "Seloc" manual as well. My question is . . . Does the drive shaft (vertical shaft) have to be removed due to the pinion gear placement between the reverse and forward gears, or can i just pull off the threaded nut at bottom of foot, the keyed washer, then use the slide hammer and jaw expander to pull the bearing case?
also, i haven't received the Yamaha model specific manual. but i have the tools and they must be returned before the manual will be here. so i would like to find out if i can go ahead and get this step out of the way.
THANKS IN ADVANCE!
-Johnny