I'm aware of that aspect but I'm not sure what his budget is and that old Merc would not be my choice either. I had one one and it was a great motor though, if in good shape maybe use it for awhile?? The numbers just give a perspective on a new repower, I personally would switch it out but not at 8K and new. Personally I would go with a 115 Rude, can't kill them and everybody can work on them even you LOL - it would be a cheap swap. New a 115/130 4 cyl, Etec would be my choice but thats just me - and I'm kinda retarded.
