I'm doing some work on a friends boat, the alpha gen 2 was taken off the boat 3 yrs ago. I replaced the impeller on it and drive lube. My question is should the drive shaft and u joints turn freely by hand? I should know this but I'm asking the question to be sure.. I would say yes that you should be able to turn it by hand, right know its tight as a drum and cant turn it by hand!! Any input would be appreciated..

if you are trying to turn a water pump, then no. pump is very tight.

Put a little oil in the impeller then you will only feel the gears. It will wash away in one minute.
good luck