Let me start by saying that I am super cheap (mostly because I have to be). With that said, I think the Yamaha 130 is probably the perfect motor for the 18. Its light, super reliable and fuel efficient for its horsepower. I just looked on ebay and you can buy a steering arm for a 115/130 for less than $200. I recently pulled the head on my 90 to replace a bunch of gaskets and was surprised at how easy it was. I built some gallows out of 2x4 and used an automotive jack on top with a chain to do the deed. My vote would be to keep the 130, change out the steering arm, put a new base gasket in there, and maybe repaint the cowl with some new decals. You'll feel like you have a new motor and you'll have almost 10K still in your pocket. You'll also have a great feeling of accomplishment.
That's my 2 cents. Good luck on whatever you choose to do.
Rob
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04-09-2019, 07:53 AM
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