It's interesting though. You don't tell all the facts, do you? Sure CD/Savings rates are up. But so are mortgage costs, T-bill rates (and thus interest costs on the debt), a few banks have "failed" due to the rapid rise, and energy (and gas costs) costs still high. Oh and that conversion to...
They have to paint the whole door because it is difficult to blend old and new white. I'd probably leave it. Or try buffing it yourself knowing you'll have the whole door done if you screw it up.
I had a set of 4 blades put on this spring. So far so good. The prop shop recommended them as they have more blade area than others. They pop the boat up on plane quick and hold it there under 3000 rpms.
Really the only thing you can do is go down in the engine room while running and look for leaks. I'd start with anything going thru the transom. Then maybe a hose or fitting on the engine.
yes changing out motors at 350 hours is not normal. The 489 is a stroked version of the big block 454. So has more Torque and HP. Should do fine if they are taken care of.