First off Maineman thats SUCKS…..If a guy wants to Upgrade and Fix your 2.5 like BCB said Id go to Screamandfly.com and look at the vendors that modify and fix broken 2.5s and their are many. Id recommend talking to Jay Smith in Texas 281-576-5088 he is The Master and can make your motor better than new, Id recommend him fixing it and maybe have the motor repaired so it produces more low end torque and a more power up top, these things are known to produce ungodly HP, upwards of 300!!! However to spend that kind of money a guy can find a very nice Used 200 EFI 3liter Mercury/Mariner and have the factory correct HP and Torque, and as BCB will tell you the 3liter of any brand will Rock on the Pantera….Also, with your amount of investment I would not rule out finding a nice clean used Yamaha OX66 3.1liter V6 or a OMC 3liter carbed motor, the Yammy and OMC are very reliable, granted your control box would need replacement yet thats a small thing. Mercury has factory Powerhead or about $5000 with Mercury Warranty……If you need any help or advice let me know…..Brannon