opinions on what to do to motor ...

[THEFERMANATOR]

Like stated above already. Also when you do the water pump, do the whole pump with the base assembly. Many overlook the base, and this is a problematic area with letting water into the foot. On a MERC the oil injection is disater waiting to happen. I pondered keeping it on mine, but after some asking around I ditched it. The plastic crank gears are too prone to breaking after they get to be 10-12 years old. If you are gonna keep it, make sure the alarm system is working properly ESPESCIALLY the magnetic pick-up for the oil pump drive alarm. Look over the stator and power packs for signs of the potting material for damage. The potting material in them likes to get soft and runny over the years and expose the internal circuits.