[tartuffe]

Take a better look at those stringers. Try finding a gap to see if you can stick a screw driver in there. I thought there was one in the 9th pic.

Also, what money to you plan to spend on doing this upgrade to an outboard? My guess would be a minimum of eight grand after purchase by the time you find a good deal on a used engine, controls, steering system, and bracket.

If the hull and stringers/transom are solid (and you are absolutely certain as the transom can be deceiving until you gain access to it/drill it) along with a road-worthy trailer its not a bad deal. I would try the old (15) hundred dollar bills with one extra in my pocket before walking away for another week.