Yes,,,,,thank for taking the time to reply and help me.
I understand all of what you are saying.
I will definitely do a pressure and vacuum test, somehow......the pressure test is easier than the vacuum test because of the equipment involved.
There is a prop shaft seal in a bearing assembly in which the seal is not sold separately.....could be the culprit.
The Assembly is $158.00 and I'm told that I can remove a washer to get to the seal.....and buy the at a seal house
I've seen the assembly and I'm not quite sure how to access the seal......dont want to damage the assy.
I'll eventually tackle it but I thought I'd as you if you've ever done that on a '76 Johnson.
The person on the forum that told me that originally ...I think has given up on me.
Thank you for the time it took to answer me.