New member, new V20 owner

[Fishwhisperer 180]

I was stationed in San Diego, Point Loma for three years punching wholes in the sea. My civilian boat at the time was a 18 Hobie.
As far as your new asset, Shop the choices. Make a Repair Order and cost out time, parts and materials of each option. Then weight the benefits of cost with your ideal set-up.
With gas prices as they are a lot of people are unloading their boats. Boats that have problems are the first to go ( like yours for example). What I'm leading to is the fact that I have never seen the pick-in's this good. There is New old stock, used parts, New new stock, etc... You might come across a deal that you can't pass up.You have to get online and get just as good at finding the the parts (at the right price) as you are at putting them together.
The crew here does a great job in posting info on anything you might need. Between landing her for $400 then joining this forum your well on your way.
If you should decide to stay with an I/O consider a fresh water cooling system if not currently outfitted with one.
Please post pics of the project so we can pick up some tips. Congratulations and good luck.

[Cali-V]

Yep, pretty much the answers I was wanting to hear! Just needed some back up. I guess if I had the money, I would opt for a bracket with the large platform (would be great for swimming and spearfishing) and a shiny new four stroke. Since that is out of budget a compromise might be a float bracket without the platform and a used two stroke. I have seen the little box style one that Stainless Marine makes for a good price. I started shopping around for used outboards after I got home and will make some calls tomorrow for prices/options. Lots of boat snobs in this area who think nothing of re-powering at a cost more than I make in a year! There are definitely deals to be had.

Anyone have any idea about the door? I could probably make something but could use a close up picture of the door and top connection. I'll start cruising the gallery now.

Thanks again guys! Got to love a website dedicated to one make/model of boat.