And for the bad news… When I was putting the engine support rod back on to go home I noticed a lot of fuel mix on the bottom of the pan below the power head.
I pulled the cover off and noticed fuel spray on my newly installed fuel line. Plus there was obviously fuel being sprayed out from the seam where the crankcase splits.
Previously the exhaust side of the engine looked to be in good condition and well sealed. But after our lake run, it looks to be leaking now as well.
So unfortunately Jayzon was very correct about the seals for the crankcase being an issue. I went from thinking this project was wrapping up nicely as I pulled back up to dock with the boat…. to realizing I have only just begun on getting this engine back up to good working order.