Looks like I'll start with a leak down but after hearing the noise my engine was making at the poker run I think it's gonna have to be pulled

Sucks for a 1997 with only about 400 hours on it!!!

Watch for all my future posts like:

Pulling a 454, anything special I need to know?

And

How do I make a high reving BBC and keep it reliable?

And

What needs to be marineized?

This site rocks, thanks to all for your help thus far

I checked out a new compression gauge the other day and tried open/closed throttles on a 2 stroke outboard. With the throttle closed- it takes more crank cycles, but will eventually pump to the same pressure reading as with throttles open. My father-in-law definitely needs a replacement for his 20+ year old 140 horse Chrysler OB!!!

I will try it soon on the 540's.

Good Question!!!
Bulldog

They seem to last forever, they are the fastest on my little lake, but I just cannot give in cause that sound SUCKS!!!!

I have even convinced myself that a cat with dual O.B. on it looks cool.....

Keep it together Chad... Big blocks are better even though yours is blown already