Faztbullet, This is EXCELLENT news! I have only tested it on the hose, but plan to put it on the water later today. I had a feeling that being on the water may impact the functionality of the switch, but couldn't really figure it in my head. I will get back with you to confirm that this was indeed the case. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
boobie, She started cutting out after I put her on Lake Murray. I could only get her up to approx. 2000 RPMs and then she would cut out and die. I limped around the lake and tried to fish, but it was extremely frustrating. When we finally called it a day, I stopped to eat at a Cracker Barrel and noticed that I had gear lube leaking from the gap between my upper and lower unit. I thought..."just great!" So, fast forward a month and I have replaced my water pump, spark plugs, cleaned all 6 carbs, and repainted my lower unit (I had quite a bit of aluminum showing). After cleaning the carbs (which were clean anyway) and syncing the mix screws, and checking pressure from my VRO, I began testing each new plug. I had good spark from my starboard side, but none from my port side. This was really peculiar, so I googled it, and the first hit discussed the neutral shift switch. I disconnected it and all six cylinders were banging strong! I was happy to have found the problem. However, trying to find the new switch was not easy as it's been discontinued. I must have called 8 different marine parts dealers and to no avail. Finally, after searching E-bay, I came across a similar switch where the "switch end" matched, but the plug into the powerpack was different. I simply spliced the new switch to the old plug and tested resistance with my multi-meter. All worked fine. I also tested the new switch on the motor when connected to the hose. Depressing the button caused the motor to cut out, so I knew the switch was working properly. I hope this post/experience helps others in diagnosing their motor issues. With this issue, you could run down a 100 rabbit holes, only to find that a simple switch was the problem. Thanks again for the replies...y'all have a great weekend!