To Repower or Not To Repower? That is The Question.

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I agree with the guys above regarding keep it if you like it, replace it if you don't. Some things you do because it brings you joy, not because it makes economic sense. I repowered my 1982 searay walkaround 24'7" last winter with a new merc 250 hp, bravo 1, with full fresh water cooling, including the manifolds for $14,000. Dealer here did the install including new steering, wiring harness and controls. I did new wiring, instrument panel, fuel tank, upholstry, myself. Put 70 hours on it this summer and am glad I repowered new vs. rebuilding the old but servicable 260 hp IO. It ran good, but problems were driving me crazy. I elected to go with the carbureted 5.7, 250 hp rather than the fuel injected versions that give more power for two reasons 1) carbs are simple and have been around about 100 years. I have always been able to get home 2) The injected engines have sensors that monitor all kinds of things to optimize and give you the power. These sensors measure in milliamps and millivolts. Corrosion at a connection or terminal can shut the engine down and you will tear your hair and wallet out troubleshooting. There is no such thing as jerry rigging to get home on these electronic marvels. I have seen this first hand on boats 3+ years old. I live close to you, and also boat on the bay, and know what the salt air can do. Just my two cents worth.