Lil update on this 2 star post for those still tuned in...
I previously put a new bilge pump in and replaced the 40 y/o button for the main ignition circuit with a toggle switch. The auto bilge button of the same kind is broken and I did not want to have the ignition one take a dump while out on the water. This switch allows all the accessories to be hot without the motor running, and the key will not turn it over w/o the switch on.
Found a way to test the no op water temp gauge by grounding it at the sender and if it pegs the thing is good and it's likely the sender. Instead of boiling water and testing resistance with an ohm meter I shelled out for a new sender at $35 and will be replacing the thermostat too as it is a wear item with all the raw cooling water.
The other item I noticed was the propeller shaft packing was leaking more than it should have been while sitting, idling or under high revs. There is an inspection cover that I was paying keen attention to where I noticed the leak. Did not come close to sinking us but was glad the bilge was new and up to the task. The packing is a rope type affair and the ones that came out today were shot.
So today I started the repack of the prop shaft and in my research it was suggested to remove the entire assembly to check the shaft alignment where it leaves the hull to confirm it's centered. Well, it was off badly so I will be undertaking a shaft realignment by moving the adjustments at the motor mounts for up/down and adjustment points for side to side, 4 of each in total, and 1 of each at each corner. .
Jumping in with both feet....
More disassembled not, but no photos before I wrapped up today.