New engine for 18 year old boat

Question
I have a 1990 18.5 ft hydrasport boat.My current engine is done, cylinder problem.  It has been suggested that I get a 115 Yamaha, My question is how long will a boat like this last. It is kept on a lift during the season and pulled out and wrapped for the winter? it appears in very good condition other than the seats covers, also is it worth getting a boat shrink wrapped or just a canvas cover.  Thank you

Answer
Hi Tom.....thanks for selecting the undersigned to respond to your question.

First, your boat has a US or Can. Capacity Plate, which specifies the max. rated engine hp. permitted for your boat. If you exceed it, your marine insurance may be null & void, and you will be adding more stress to the boat than it was initially designed to handle.

Secondly, looks can be deceiving so get your boat surveyed by a qualified & reliable marine surveyor in order to determine the overall condition of the hull. Pay particular attention to any osmosis (water trapped beneath the gelcoat surface and within laminates of fiberglass and wooden frames). This is primary. Also, if the boat is not seaworthy, there's no sense in persuing an engine for it. The surveyor will also assess the current value of your boat, so you can determine how much you want to spend on it or whether it is even worth while to do so. Don't forget to check the alignment of the keel. If it's warped or hog-backed, you have a serious problem, and it likely isn't economical to repair, given the age of your boat.

Safe Boating
Ron