First of all, let me apologize for all the questions. I just want to make sure I do the right things. My Clymer manual doesnt really get into this too much.<br /><br />1989 Johnson 50, Model No. J50TLCEC <br /><br />After figuring out the problem in my last post<br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=28;t=028452#000000 <br />(thankfully it was just the prop hub) I mentioned I would start a post for the new problem I have.<br /><br />When I was running the boat with the new prop and figured out that it was just the prop hub, the motor made a strange noise. It happened after about a 30 minute cruise (mixed rpms) and another 1 hour idle cruise and another 15 minute cruise (mixed rpms). It sounded like a belt slipping and a motor without belts it was very strange. It was definitely coming from the top of the motor and after further investigation I believe the timer base had moved slightly or was bent/warped and was rubbing against the flywheel. I am going to get the 3 new pieces for the timer base and was just wondering if there is anything special I need to do or watch out for when replacing it. Is there something that causes this or is it just one of those things that happen? The flywheel has some small scratches in it from rubbing but only on the very bottom and it doesn't look bad. Would this be ok and should I smooth it down with a light sanding? If I need to, I could use the flywheel off my 80 Evinrude. It looks exactly the same. I will also need the alignment tool when I replace the electrics (charge & spark coils & power pack). Could anyone help me out with the part numbers (including the alignment tool)? I would like to call the Johnson dealer & give them the part numbers so I know I am getting the correct items and hopefully they are parts I can still get.<br /><br />I know that I will have to check and adjust the timing. Can I set the idle timing in my driveway (at least a rough setting) and then set the top speed timing with the boat on the trailer at the boat ramp? That would be the easiest and safest way and I would not feel comfortable running in the water trying to check the timing. What would be the lowest rpm that the timing is fully advanced (3500+/-)? I was also thinking about using a spark tester to set the idle timing so I wont have to start the motor.<br /><br />One thing I would like to do is check the flywheel on the motor without the parts underneath it just to make sure its spinning correctly. Can I do this and use the starter to spin it? I still need a ½ drive torque wrench to torque the flywheel correctly. When installing the flywheel do you just put it on and torque it down or do you try to set it a little bit first with a rubber mallet.<br /><br />I hope all of the above makes sense & thanks again. If it wasnt for this forum, I would be spending a lot of money at the John-Rude dealer. Well, at least a lot more money. They still get some of it.