Lower End --35HP reinstall issue--Need HELP!

[mbroker100]

Water Pump Replacement Issue--1st Timer---Need Help!!!

Ok, so brand new to boating and I just got a 14' 1978 Boston Whaler with
a 1983 35HP Johnson on it. I have spent that last month watching videos
and researching outboard engines and small boats so I can fix this
thing myself. I enjoy it. I just replaced the steering cable, cleaned
out the carb, new solenoid, new coils, new starter, plugs, and a new
battery. Wanted to freshen it all up a bit. I started her up and she
runs but she is not spitting any water. So I dropped the lower end
today and replaced the water pump--> housing, impeller, plate,
gasket, etc... I also ran weed whacker line through the water line
holes and pushed air from the underside with a compressor to make sure
the water line was clear(which it pushed air through) So here is my
problem--> I can't get the lower end back on. I dropped it while the
engine was in neutral and when I try and slide it back in it seems like
the drive shaft is about 1/4" to 1/2" to long preventing me to even
attempt to line up the water line with the water pump grommet and flush
up the lower end with the rest of the motor to replace the mounting
bolts. Any ideas?


The instructions say to "engage piston" when I replace the shaft but I
am not really sure how to do that? When I turn the drive shaft should
the propeller turn? or no because I dropped it in neutral?


So I am stuck here not able to get the lower end back on the motor? Any and all help would be appreciated...


~Mike