[willy]

Mark I am in New Jersey and I can tell you that if you have a pro mariner around here do the job you are looking at between 4-5.5 G's for the job.
I agree it is an outrageous price but that is the price around here, I have talked with several people the past few years who either have done it at least priced it out. And remember you are paying a pro by the hour and it is a labor intensive job and the materials are not cheap, ask Hammer.
Now the good news is if you can get it and do the job yourself you will be OK.
If you are not going to do it yourself walk away and find another for a little more money maybe with a good transom.
Also the Mariner is a just ok engine and it is at the bottom of the power spectrum suitable for the boat.
Just my opinion.