Yes very common.----You need to take the time to line up the notch on the shift rod with the hole in the connecter.-----Line it up carefully and if threads are still good in the coupler you will not damage it again !!
1972 it sounds to me that the new E-tec had the wrong prop ( too much pitch ).----And the old 25 might also have had the wrong prop ( too little pitch ) I say.!----Some concepts are difficult to understand if this is your first boat and motor !
Best to do some analysis on the info provided to you..----The carburetor must be OPEN to let air through to the intake valves.-----Then that air is compressed to give your reading.----Best do some reading on how the motor is an " air pumping " machine and how your motor works !!
??---A 50 HP in 1975 would not be PROPSHAFT power rated.-----Most motors today are rated at the prop !!----There is a difference.----Hurry to your local dealer or do some more reading I say.
???-----The man appears to have the 2 cylinder motor.-----There is no way to use a big hammer to make a 3 / 4 / 6 cylinder trim / tilt unit fit on it !!!
No other fluids.----There are some grease fittings.-----There is no gasket between lower unit and exhaust housing.-----Inspect thermostat.---Inspect ignition coils.------Do compression test for future reference.----Post your numbers here.
Those trim / tilt relays ( $25 ) are available all day long.-----I say you have a wiring problem and there is nothing wrong with the new or old relays.
