Often you have to go up first to get clearance for that to go out of the way.-----Or maybe the trim limit switch is the issue.-----Seems strange that it would lock up in storage.
How about ---" jewelers rouge "-------Or my favourite for stainless material.-----Diamond polishing compound rubbed in with soft ladies underwear.------Usually get a chuckle when I mention to use that.
Install a new impeller.-----Change gear oil.-----Then see if oil injection is hooked up or bypassed.------Run at 50:1 and verify oil injection is working before running straight fuel.
Correct the solenoid is only used to go UP.-----Try hooking motor wires directly to battery , black to 12 volt negative blue to positive.----Does trim motor operate ?
Installing a new impeller every 3 years is one good step to take.----Resealing the gearcase is also one good step to make the 50 year old motor live a long happy life.
When those have water in the gearcase in freezing climates you get ice.----There is a snap ring in a groove and the pressure pops the housing right there because it is the weakest point.-----New / used gearcase is the fix.
I do believe there is a plug on older 4 cylinder 50 HP models.----Find it on the water cover near sparkplugs.---Remove and install tubing for water pressure.
If the motor will not turn then likely you need to overhaul the pivot tube on the motor.----Likely lots of corrosion that needs to be cleaned up.----Can be frustrating work.----Salt water I assume.-----Regular greasing / inspection is a must.
Agreed with the above post.------I am too far away likely.----Have many of those shock absorbers.-----Just find yourself a good used one and assemble it.----Likely to need a good inspection of that upper bearing plate as stated.
Most 60 HP motors have a battery charging system on them.-----Look for it.----Or check voltage at the battery with motor stopped and running at a fast idle.
Take lower unit apart use 1/4" threaded rod.---Use 1/4 nut with corners rounded off and pull the bushing out.------Or run a 5/16 -NC tap in there and pull the bushing out with 5/16 threaded rod.
Yes that is the way they are from the factory.----That is what is called a " slip clutch "-----Fairly common for the spring inside to break.-----Then the thing gets longer and jams up.----Last year they used it was the 1965 model 6 HP.-----Lots of used ones around if you know where to look.