Gremlins- problem found
 

Well the problem was a broken exhaust rocker arm stud. Ordered new set. Valve all ok and spring is ok. Found that the rocker arm had gone bad and is showing some bind. Ordered new set.

Steve,

Glad to hear your problem wasn't severe enough to keep you out of the water. Will you be boating this weekend?---if so, where?

unless there is some hidden damage I should be boating at Grand Haven this weekend - weather permitting.