Mercury Mariner 30/40 4-Stroke Outboard Service Manual 1998, Page 395Get this manual
NON-BIGFOOT GEAR HOUSING
Inspection
Upper Drive Shaft Bearing
1Inspect bearing for rust, roughness or discoloration from lack of lubricant200 NOT remove bearing from drive shaft unl ess bearing must be replacedas removal process will damage bearing3If bearing must be replaced, position drive shaft assembly in vise Uaws of vise supporting only bearing) and while holding drive shaft, strike top of drive shaft with lead hammer and drive bearing off