Finally done

[tazmania]

Update on the motor.
2 hidden bolts hold mid section to pivot arm and one of these nuts vibrated off. That was June 5th. Lower unit had to come off and powerhead to access these bolts in the mid section. Glad I bought a full gasket set as a light seep from head gasket on lower cylinder was full failure of lower gasket. (Should have done compression test) New gaskets, seals and water impleller kit with housing.
Dad passed away and I headed north to say goodbyes.
All back together and engine started on first pull. Ran on muffs in the driveway.
Tested out from pier 4 hamilton yesterday. It was a great afternoon.
Lots of work but glad I did it

 

[alexjf]

Well done they certainly don't make it easy for the diy guys like us but a great way to save a lot of cash to buy more gas.Also our condolences on your Father's passing

 

[tazmania]

Well done they certainly don't make it easy for the diy guys like us but a great way to save a lot of cash to buy more gas.Also our condolences on your Father's passing

Thank you for your condolences. Just shy of his 92 birthday. Dementia for the last 10 years. At least he was healthy and we had him those years.
Very odd sense of calm at his passing. Not the over consuming crap grief.
Thanks again, Shawn aka Taz