Launced at Calc Pt saturday morning and didnt make it 200 yrs before i heard a thud and the engine started reving real high. I was at almost full throttle, but after the thud the boat came off step. I immediately put the boat in neutral, and the motor seemed to run fine, but when putting in gear the prop would not spin. I tried shifting into reverse but the throttle would not go into reverse. After getting the boat home, i took off the prop and it looks like that plastic/polymer bushing is shot. From what i have heard and read on this site, this is not something that can be replaced without a press or a vice?? The engine is a 50 HP two stroke. Can someone recommend a mechanic in the local area? I have not done any motor repair work in the LC area and want to bring it to a reputable service place. I don't really care how long the repair takes since I will be picking up the new sled this afternoon.
On a side note, since i already had the boat in the water, trolled around the LNG and picked up 4 flounder and 2 reds on gulp swimming mullet. Water looked horrible and the bites were few and far between.