Well, here's the story. I spun a bearing about a month ago in my 99SVT (started making noise @39k, finally bound completely at about 55k..weird it took so long to munch the bearing) and have been fighting with Ford to no avail to get my motor replaced. Looks like it's time to do something myself. Here's where it gets interesting. With a kid in college and having just bought a new home, cash is short and of course time is too. What I do have however, is a 1987 VIP 21' center console with a 125HP Force (rebuilt powerhead, carbs & impellar this year)and trailer that according to ABOS marine blue book has an average retail of about $6k. The boat is in average condition, motor is good and trailer is a little rough, but very functional. I'd be willing to hand over titles of this rig for a new motor installed. I don't really care if it's a custom crafted 3L or a new 2.5L, but what I do care is that it not be a 90k mile salvage yard motor with old, worn internals. I'm looking to end up with a reliable daily driver. What I figure is that someone with the right knowledge and connections (which I why I posted this in the 3L forum, you guys know your stuff), could easily do this job with about 2k + time into it, and end up with a saleable boat or a new toy. I'd love to tackle this myself but simply don't have the time or the resources. I can forward pics of the boat to anyone interested. You can request here or email me at
jeff.miller@marinemax.com Thanks all!
Jeff
jeff.miller@marinemax.com 
