If you still have the VRO and want to remove it , the best solution is a fuel pump off an 88 HP V-4.-----It mounts directly over the PRESSURE port on intake manifold.
No the block wont be cracked !-----So a 65 HP model , a 1967 or 1972.-----Model # MUST be posted.-----Timer base stuck ?----Throttle plates stuck , jammed open?-----Stop running it till you figure this out !!
Normal for that area to be colder with condensation on it !!!-----Is there a working thermostat installed in this motor?-----Does the motor run / idle at about 140 F degrees ?
One of these days I think I will put a pump together with EVERY vane the wrong way.------Start it , run it at full throttle for 30 seconds and see what happened to the vanes
How did it shift last season ???----Use 21 23/32"---But you are close to that.-----And get rid of that home made shift rod too.-----And you are not supposed to shift slowly !!----Take the lower unit apart.-----There might be more to it than the shift rod.