Robert---Here's the skinny on getting the prop shaft out, 'according to
the book'. Well sort of...Over time it seems that the two rubber discs
that support the tranny become soft and allow the tranny to drop. When
this happens, the prop shaft can't pass out the front opening, no matter
which way you turn the u-joint and flange.
The very quickest and easiest way at this point is to loosen the two
3/4" x 1-1/4" bolts that hold the tranny tail shaft to the support
bracket. Let these two nuts come down about 1/2" or so, each. Then
place a jack under the tranny case and lift the 'case up the extra half
inch or so necessary for the prop shaft to clear the frontal opening.
Remember that it is still necessary to rotate the flanges to their
otimum position so this whole assy. can slip out.
Leave the unit supported this way so you can put the prop shaft back in
with ease. When time permits take a look at the condition of the support
rubber blocks. Good chance they're mush.
Dick Taylor
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