Re: 1979 55hp johnson shift problems
If the engine idles both in neutral and in gear, it's unlikely that a metal to metal problem exists... it could but it's unlikely.
Is that noise you hear a actual sound like metal jaming up against something, such as a connecting rod hitting the inner portion of the crankcase, or is more like a coughing or spitting back of a carburetor, sounding like a mild backfire?
If a coughing or spitting back scenario exists, that could indicate that the carburetors are fouled, in which case, remove, clean, and rebuild them.
