225 Excel lower unit noise

[sega45]

Lower unit on my 1987 Yamaha 225 Excel is making a noise that kinda sounds like the noise tapping valves make in a car engine. The more power I give the 225 engine the louder the tapping noise gets. Sounds like the gears are going to out of the lower unit. Checked the oil in the lower unit and it is clear with no metal shaving on the magnetic plug and no water in the oil.. What do I need to do to fix this problem? Planning on taking it to the Yamaha dealer this week, just want to be prepared...

[jb123]

ensure your cable/ linkage is engaging properly.

[sega45]

Lower Unit is shot!!! Gears are gone. Now I need another Lower Unit. Anyone out there have one that will work? The motor is a 1987 225.
If so e-mail me @ hd50105@yahoo.com