Not a problem, plus you being in Canada may not have been aware of our Memorial Day holiday weekend where we honor our military who did not return alive from war or conflict.
For your muted popping noise, like I mentioned before, have a good tech experiment with the TPS calibration adjustment to see if things improve if the situation is objectionable to you. Since it is in that combution mode transition rpm range, I doubt that it is anything to worry about, plus that is not an rpm that is used often due to the boat not being on plane yet and just plowing the water.
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"There is never just one thing wrong with a boat"
--- Travis McGee
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The factory recommends that a properly trained technician service your Johnson or Evinrude outboard motor. If you elect to do it yourself, be sure to use caution, common sense, and to observe all safety procedures in the vicinity of gasoline, moving engine parts, high temperature components, heavy items, and electrical or ignition systems.
The information offered here is only general in nature and should not be construed as complete factory approved procedures, techniques, or specifications. Always use the proper service manual for your motor, up-to-date service literature, correct tools, and have an understanding of how to proceed with a repair. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with a procedure, a situation or a technique, enlist the services of a factory trained technician.
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