1984-1986 Mercury Force 9.9 and 15HP Outboards Service Manual, Page 75Get this manual
A Remove screws securing gear housing to motor leg
8 Sh ift engine into forward gear
CAUTION
Turn lIywheel or propeller shaft when shifting to avoid damage to dogs on clutch and gears
CPull gear housing down to expose screw
connecting upper and lower gear sh ift rods