just got a 23, please advise

[fatalbert]

Hi folks, i found your board in doing some research before a boat purchase and have been encouraged to pick up an '85 23' Sceptre. The hull is great, has good electronics, and is a fish-ready package with the exception of 2 humongous, problematic, P.O.S. 200 hp Suzukis weighing the ass down. I want 'em gone and a new single 250, preferably a Yamaha. I would love to do a complete resto, but the boat has been maintained well enough to where i just (help me out here)can't justify it. Anyway, my questions are initially with regard to the repower and the transom notch. The notch seems a little low for my likes, especially in a following North Carolina sea while trying to slow troll. Can this be altered without a lot of grief and expense so as to raise the engine a bit? Also, would I need a longer shaft on the 250? BTW, I'm not a big fan of brackets, but if the benefits are worth it, I'd consider. Thank you all for your replies.

Proud New Owner