Raw Water Pump in '97 Sport GT-40

Winterized the boat yesterday for the first time ('97 Sport Nautique with GT-40). Everything went well except for when I went to remove the impeller - I could not get the raw water pump out! It seems there isn't enough clearance between the mounting bracket and the aluminum that covers the stringers unless you remove the mounting bracket. After disconnecting the hoses I rotated the pump every way I could and it wan't coming out (without damaging the pulley wheel).

I ended up opening up the pump while it was still loose inside the mounting bracket and removed the battered impeller (why I always inspect/replace each winterization). I put it back together loosely as it sits in the bracket. I'll be reassembling it next spring while still in the bracket.

I'm sure it's been discussed before here but it's the first time I encountered it.

-Keith