Re: 1978 evinrude 115 not getting full throttle
I have the same engine.
I would first check spark on all four plugs,
Could be a combination of many things but lets eliminate the easy ones first.check spark, get a spark tester at your local auto store, arounf $8.00
Wire brush or sand off the paint on the tip of the adjusting screw, that way you get a good ground to check your spark. Set tester at 7/16 gap, should be good blue spark.
If you do get good blue spark on all four, then pull compression check. you never stated anything about water intrusion or running rough but always possibility of blown head gasket.
spark check good, compression check good, then look at fuel. fuel lines, fuel pump, fuel filter.
Mine was doing the same thing when I first got it, ended up being a weak fuel pump, replaced it and runs fantastic. Let us know what you find on the tests and will go forward from there.