@Marc,
Ah, that's some helpful, although not unexpected, advice. I kinda figured that a local dealer might be less than elated about just doing the installation. Oh, and the authorized Yamaha installer here in town was pretty unfriendly and condescending to begin with; he won't be getting my business no matter how cheap they are.
At this point I'm only scratching at the marketplace for engines and have a lot to learn. The engine boats.net were advertising for such an apparently good price is a 2013 new in crate engine that's probably taking up space in their warehouse.
I've thought about calling you to discuss engines and trailers and will likely do so in the pret' near future. Hmmm, 11-hour drive... :shock: Beats 36 though...
Thanks for the input.
T