1978 evinrude 25 hp

[nacreeb1]

on a 1978 25 hp evinrude does engine need to be in gear to remove lower unit to install new impeller

[Solarman]

No, but shift rod needs to be separated, and make sure there are no hidden bolts (under trim tab). Also, sometimes the drive shaft splines, with old grease tends to stick, as well as rust can cause splines to stick.

But, when putting lower unit back on, it is good for it to be in gear to turn drive shaft, by prop, to get splines to line up, for it to go together properly.

Good luck, post back if any problems.