Cajun just sent me a copy of the 66 service manual and parts book…So, Dave’s description of two different types of retaining systems is correct. The 66 parts book calls for a 205577 retainer for the coupler, which supercedes the very expensive “coupler assembly”. Neither of these parts is available, so will look into Chip’s retaining clip that he found….Later years have different part numbers for these items which must reflect the design change…
Now to just figure out how the system changed in later years…I’m guessing the SS retainer clip was a weak link that came off easily allowing the coupler to fall apart when the lower unit was folded up….
Glad to be learning something here…
Thanks
D