[abl1111]

Thx for that link... I will check it out. I do a lot of work myself too. At least the complete winterization of the motor/drive. It is a new motor/drive so it really does not need much. I'm into the theory of "preventive maintenance", so I try not to let things go without me being on top of it.

As for having an i/o, it has it's pro's and con's. When I re-did my boat, it originally had (2) i/o's and I re-did the transom/motor beds and put in (1) new i/o. I thought about the outboard idea - I just could not afford the extra $dough$ for a bracket and (2) FI Yamaha's or (2) Yamaha, 4 strokes. The i/o made more economical sense. I also would have liked a diesel w/ a jackshaft. At least I would have a diesel, but still the drive. All in all, I'm very happy with the i/o. If I stored her on a lift and the drive was not in the water all the time, that would be the perfect scenario.

My mechanic is a really good guy - knows his sh*it, he gets paid well for it like any quality mechanic. I would recommend him. He is in Bayshore, too far from where you are from. The name of the place is Burnetts Marine on Homan Ave in Bayshore., The guy is Gene.