Well, I guess my fishing is done for the season. The crank broke on my power plant and with all the extra expenses with wifey undergoing treatment, I probably won't be able to afford to repair it for a while. Anyone in this area facing a similar engine problem may want to see my post elsewhere on this site, as this problem was created by shoddy workmanship by a local company.
Since I am down hard anyway, maybe it's time to explore converting to an outboard, although I suspect that the cost would be prohibitive considering the age of the boat.

Sorry to hear about your troubles. I take it, that it is an I/O? What motor and what type of leg do you have?........BB

My rig is on the west coast for a bit. All it needs is gas. Let me know if/when you wanna go.
Them 4 bangers are readily available, che Van CL.

The plant is an older i/o Mercruiser 140 hp 4 banger. Normally they are virtually indestructible but no engine is proof against shoddy workmanship on a rebuild.
Thanks Cheech, I really appreciate the offer.

Sorry to hear that your engine blew. I had the same engine and it blew on my last boat... great engine until the riser got plugged and overheated the head. I'm always looking for crew on the Simple Servant, its on the west side too.

Will keep a lookout for a good used engine for you, will PM you if I run across one..................BB

There is a rebuilt 140hp merc I/O on used victoria, that might be worth looking at............BB