[BillPutney]

okay an update. I know I will catch some grief but here goes.I could never get the stainless shaft that passes thru the tilt tube to break free,heat, beating with a large hammer and eventually a sledge hammer to no avail,so I ended up putting the attachment arms back on and leaving enough slack so that they rotate freely when the engine is tilted.I,ve run the boat and it works find and there is no binding when tilting the motor,The way I figure , it has been operating fine when it was in a bind and making the popping sound when tilted , and now with this setup I can move either side with my bear hands and there is no slop or play that I can detect.I know it will not meet the purists standards but it works for me .Total cost to repair with saw blades, bolts,washers and lubricants/penetrants,and 3 drill bits $18.00 .