Keith, Just a thought. When my 7.4 was entering the retirement zone I contemplated the same issue. I weight all cost and condition of my motor (I run in salt water), I ended up Purchasing a complete motor from Sallee at
http://www.sallee-chevrolet.com/frame.html 454/425hp. I paid around 4800.00. Now that was four years ago, a decision I am glad I made! I gave the old engine away and the guy has had to chase one problem after another! Could be he is not a great mechanic. so I gained 100hp and Had a great engine! I say had because I sold the boat to a friend a couple years ago and he installed a B&M Supercharger 174 on it, I see him almost every weekend flying around with a big smile on his face? FYI when I first received the engine I did install a new set of felpro marine head gaskets!
My 2 cents worth! Have a great day Kieth.......Bryan
