repowering option for 18' flats boat

[spacerust]

my motor is just about gone. i have a mercury 150 on my 18' flats boat. i was looking to get another motor for it but would like something lighter. i saw an 88 yamaha with good compression and overall good condition. the owner said it has the usual yamaha cracks on side. Is this something that needs immediate attention? does is affect performance? or merely cosmetic? also it is 115 hp. what would be a good option to go with as far as hp? i don't care about speed just something a little lighter.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: repowering option for 18' flats boat

Cracks on the side of what part of that outboard? I'm always skeptical when someone selling something says, "It has the usual (insert flaw)."

If it's just the cowling that shows cracks, it's just cosmetic. If it's something else, tell us where these cracks are.