At this point, it’s me against the Buccaneer! Appreciate the fine advice. I hate to remove two powerheads and swap two lower units. One tiny other piece of information, if I rev the engine in the test tank (fairly high rev for a few moments) it seems the ticking goes away at idle for a few seconds. (may be my imagination or hearing) I’m going in!
One question though, I have always used Permatex Anaerobic Flange Sealer when assembling the crankcase halves. I have run out of this stuff and I am wondering if VersaChem Prime Seal Type 3 Aviation sealer will be satisfactory for this application.
Thanks again for the interest and help.