Boat setup: 1989 Ranger 360V w/ 1989 Johnson GT 150 V6
So, the last time i was out, I noticed the when I tried to get up on plane, with the hand throttle all the way down (no hotfoot), it stuggled getting out of the hole, which it never used to. Also once i got on plane, at max throttle, i was not getting my max speed, usually around 55 MPH, but was only getting about 45 MPH. I also noticed a different sound, almost as if i was not reaching my max RPMs. It didnt feel like any of the cylinders were missing and last i checked the compression was all even. When I got home I pulled the cowling off I checked the throttle linkage area as my suspicion was that something was binding or preventing me from getting max throttle. when i put the hand control all the way forward to actuate the throttle. the travel in the linkage stopped about a half inch short of the Throttle adjustment screw. Based off the indicator on the adjustment screw, it has not moved. I can physically move the linkage with my hand that last 1/2" to contact the screw, but it does not do this when the hand throttle is actuated.
So my question is, I assume at max throttle, the linkage should touch the screw, and since it is not, I assume that i am not reaching max and that is why the performance is suffering.
I have taken pictures if that helps but i am at a loss for what to do, short of taking it in for service.