How do you disconnect the shift lever on 2002 Nissan 8hp
 

I want to replace the impeller on my Nissan 8 hp motor & I can't figure out
how to disconnect the shift lever. I removed a cotter pin from a fitting on
the shift linkage where the shift rod meets the thrust rod, but the shift
rod does not slide out of the fitting. - Haven't put much pressure on it
though. - Is there something else I'm overlooking?
Thanks for your input.
Marc