Help with 48 hp lower unit repair

[Footdoc 1]

I have a 1991 48 hp johnson and am trying to repair the gears in the lower unit. I am unable to remove the bearing carriage. I have the three bolts that hold it in place and have been unable to budge the carriage. I have tried a wheel/bearing puller and a slide hammer without luck. Any suggestions or tips to try to pul this bearing carriage is appreciated. It is a long shaft engine. Also, if anyone knows where I could get a new lower unit for this outboard, it would be appreicated.

[gearcaseman]

Sometimes these carriers just refuse to cooperate, many times, as a last resort, I've had to cut the support beams with a reciprocating saw and then the circular part of the carrier can be removed. Then the remaining carrier will come out fairly easy. You may have to rap the propshaft from side to side to break it free from inside the case, but it will come out! Good luck & Patience!!