Motorcycle Repair: 65 Honda CB77 Oil Pump Removal, honda cb77, screen gaskets

Question
Hello there. I am attempting to remove the oil pump on my '65 305cc Superhawk to repair the drain plug threads. I figured it would be easier to repair the threads with the pump off the engine. However it wont easily let go! I removed the 6 bolts but the pump simply droped down about an 8th of an inch and I cant get it off the motor. I don't want to pry on it yet until I know for sure there isnt a step im forgetting. I used to collect these bikes years ago but have been out of it for years so this is like french to me again. Thanks for any help.
John

Answer
John, the pump has to knock pins that index it to the crankcase and crankshaft gear. Sometimes, the oil pump screen/gaskets all stick together and the whole thing kind of hangs there, but just pry it gently down and it will come off without damage.

http://www.cmsnl.com/honda-cb77-super-hawk-305-usa_model1001/partslist/E++10.htm

Bill Silver