Well my hunt continues! I have heard stories about how bad the ficht engines were and need to know if the newer ficht's are better or if the 97' and 98' year models that have been upgraded are worth looking at. The motors in Question 1998 Evinrude 150hp ficht $4,500 installed with controls and 60 day warranty and the other is a 1997 Evinrude 150hp ficht $4,000 installed with controls and 60 day warranty. Reputable dealer says the engines have had the upgrades and are very solid. I know appearance doesn't mean anything but they are spotless. Maybe cause they never ran much?? I need to repower but I want to make the right choice. With one daughter heading to college and 2 more right behind her I want to make the right choice with my limited bank roll. Thanks for any advise.