Lower gearcase pinion removal

[woodenbong]

Hi Guys
Just wondering if someone can help me out, I have a 6 hp 4 stroke suzuki, that I need to remove the pinion from the bottom of the shaft in the gear box,
can anyone help.

[boats.net]

Remove water pump and bearing housing, pull up on drive shaft, if pinion doesnt drop off then hold up on drive shaft and tap top of shaft with hammer, pinion should jar loose.