Problem with impeller housing removal

[deepdiver]

I am working with one of my '95 SPX which had a lot of water in bilge last time out and also cavitating. Time to replace seals and wear ring I think. Shaft is spinning OK. I took off rear and tried the "tree technique" but didn't have a come-a-long so tried a web based one which failed. Next up was the 2X4 block after getting some 5 1/2" bolts from NAPA. They have only pulled it out about 3/16" and I am close to end of travel. What the heck is holding on? I have removed the internal hoses which fittings seem to be siliconed in. Do they pull thru?
Next up is to hook back up to the tree with a chain to the 2x4 and jerk it from my truck. Should it just pop out? Is this a dangerous method?
I am open to suggestions. THNX.

 

[ski-d00]

some are pretty stuck on there but once you break the seal it will come off. they key is steady pressure, don't jerk it, that will break something. a 3' 2x4 prying against the rub rail normally gets it, you can also try prying side to side. leverage is your friend.

 

[deepdiver]

Thnx ski-doo. I'll get after it again today.

 

[deepdiver]

Well finally busted it out. Ended up using the 2x4 attached to housing and wrapping a chain to a tree and pulling with my truck in 4x4Lo. The seal between the housing and the shoe either broke or partly missing. The impeller is dinged some and the space between the impeller and wear ring is way too much. Onto the next step of R&R.