Lower Unit Removal on Johnson 225

[boatrookie]

I am in the process of changing the water pump on my Johnson 225, which is on my 84' model V20. The best I can tell, the motor is the same year, but was told by previous owner it was an 86 model. Either way, I have all of the bolts out, double checked, but cannot get lower unit off. There is a slight gap all the way around where it meets up, but that is the most I can get. I have read that it could be where it splines together at engine or something??? I am definately not familiar with these but would be considered very mechanically inclined. Any help on what I can do here to get it off without causing significant damage would be so very appreciated. Thanks in advance for the tips/suggestions!!