Not really, having been around boats for well over 60 years, a short info story and a couple good pics will show rot about 90-95% of the time has been my experience, haven't missed one yet !! I realized how easy it is for a glass boat to deteriorate once I owned one back in 1967. Never owned...
Also check your prop for damage and correct pitch. Mabey borrow a portable tachometer to see if motor is running at its peak. I would guess you should get around 22-25 mph when everything is up and running
Drill with a left hand drill bit, as it drills the bit may grab the screw and unthread it....if not, the a complete drill out and retap might be needed, looks pretty corroded. Spray it down good with penetrating oil before starting.
All the above and be courteous... learn to back up your trailer in a parking lot, not at the busy time at the launch ramp !! Backing up a trailer is not that hard, I taught all my kids in order to get there drivers license. With proper instruction, you will have it down pat in 30 min or less.
Using muffs wont test the water pump, as pressure from the hose is forcing water thru the system. Only way to really test your repair is in the water or test tank !!
Forget the Sealoc manual, they are only good for when you run out of toilet paper. Follow the OMC book right to the letter...I have sometimes had to read them a couple times to fully understand
Perhaps time for a new, newer boat ?? A complete restoration is not gonna be cheap and an awfull lot of work if you do it yourself. Sorry for your loss.
