All they had to do was loosen the PSS SS collar, and allow it to slide toward the engine as they are pushing the prop shaft back. Now depending on their prop to rudder clearance this determines just how far you can push it back. Once back, temporarily tighten the SS shaft collar back up and secure it, you also have to figure out how to keep constant pressure on the PSS. Then once thats done, hopefully you can get the trans to come out. I have exact same engine, trans and PSS. Been there done that, so I know it can be done. Also when you reassemble, make sure you put a shaft collar (McMaster Carr) behind the PSS SS collar to keep it from moving and becoming loose. Good luck!
I pulled my prop shaft in a boatyard with no stress of sinking. I spent probably 8 hours figuring out how to remove the set screw in the ACTUAL cutlass bearing (I didn’t know what part was there back then either) and it took me quite a number of hours to remove the coupler at the transmission. Luckily the prior owner had a puller on board. It’s all a learning experience. I always say that no one is born with knowledge and experience…we all learn from someone…or hopefully YouRube!
