I have some similar problems as unbusted67, also. Boat's on it's way here from
Florida, but this is what my partner reported last night after the loading was done. I posted this comment on another thread but this is the best place for it. I may have used some wrong terminology so forgive my ignorance......
Props ok, just needs
cleaning up, but afraid shaft may have severe wear once I get the remains of the cutlass bearing out! Lot of cavitation and vibration in reverse but not in forward. Also, tranny/engine loads down in reverse to the point of not increasing ACTUAL revs above 700 with throttle most of the way up. That changes if you kick it into neutral, revs shoot up as soon as trans disengauged. Trans is full of clean
oil. Forward is not as bad (loading), but same as reverse minus the vibration.
Westerbeke 40
Transmission (I gotta look again.)
__________________
Fish
"Behind every great man there is a woman, rolling her eyes."
But not for long! Now she's gone!

and peace and tranquility reign forever!
1969 Morgan 40 Cruising Ketch