Loren has it. Her rationale/decision to repower Fresh Air was very much in line with where we are right now. A major factor for us is we really can't say how well the motor was serviced for the first ~30 years of it's life (hours? valve adjustments? heatex svc?).
Yes, $2k for the trans is roughly what I'm seeing, +damper plate (which one I don't know). I can't install it, I know my limitations
It ran for about 14 hours & didn't top off the batteries (original alternator needs replacing). Did I mention on occasion it just wouldn't start? I know, lose the trailer connectors, replace the panel. The list goes on... Two years with the boat and both seasons cut very short by mechanical problems.
Unfortunately, work gets in the way of boat repair projects that take more than a couple hours. We need a dependable engine and are sure that is what we'll get with the new Beta.