What does the spline on the end of the driveshaft look like ?----Full of rust?----If so the spline in the crank may be damaged / weak.---A potential failure point.
In my opinion when you acquire a 50 year old motor you need to do a complete evaluation before spending any beer tokens.---Post actual compression values here.----If around 140 PSI ,look for and find a used lower unit.
Up and down play is normal on the driveshaft.----Factory stainless keys for impeller were never an issue.----Using --TYPE-C ---gear oil ( premium blend ) in the electric shift unit ?
Agreed.----That 31.8 Cubic inch block was even used for the zephyr sail drive rated at 15 HP.---The earlier models were 35 HP and later the same unit was 30 HP at the propshaft.----So all these ( 20 / 25 / 30 / 35 HP ) models use the same block.----The 15 HP block ( have a new one ) has tiny...