I changed my water pump impeller today on my 2004 XR6 150 today. When I tried to seat the driveshaft and complete the installation of the lower unit, it would not seat. I looked up in the channel with a flashlight and saw a metal ring over the hole where the driveshaft was to be fitted. I got a coat hanger and was able to move the ring into position and put some grease on it with the coat hanger to hold it in place. I then inserted the shaft an buttoned it up. I tested it and everything seemed to work well. One concern though. I could not see in there well, but the ring seemed to have a lip on it. It looked more like a lipped bushing. It was positioned with the lip on top when I greased it in place.

Does an of this sound familiar to anyone and have I got a problem?

that's a seal that goes inta end of tha crank... merc has a long name for it "seal carrier assy." it needs ta be in place but will run ok with it loose once ya get tha drive shaft by it!.. power head has ta be pulled ta replace it with new.. have been able ta "drive it back where it goes with a blunt pointed "wood dowel" (real pita) but tha problem is it won't stay once they come out. needs new with a touch of green loc tight....

Thanks TLW. I'll run it easy.

I had the same problem with a 87 mariner,, it was hell lining that thing up, but once you get the lower unit stabbed. your good to go.

Just be glad you have V6 Mercs, the V6 Johnsons and Evinrudes take twice as long.

tha way ya run it is not a big deal.. tha problem comes with some water intrusion and rust(shaft and crank splines)over time, especially in salt or caustic type water.. makes for a pita next time ya pull tha gear case..........

Thanks T. I only run it in fresh water fortunately and I put a load of lithium grease up in there just in case. I know it will dissipate over time but it will slow the effect of non neutral water conditions.