1998 Yamaha 130hp outboard

[roscottjr]

I have come across a deal I need advice on. I have a chance to purchase a boat with a 1998 Yamaha 130hp outboard engine. The owner says the engine needs new controls but is otherwise in great condition. He wants $450 for the boat and engine. Boat is in fairly good shape and for the most part only needs the seats recovered but I have no plans on keeping the boat. I am thinking about purchasing this and using the Yamaha 130hp to replace my Force 125hp. My Force engine runs fine right now but unless from what I understand, I will see a substantial perfomance increase with this Yamaha engine. Now for the catch, the boat and engine are 3 1/2 hours away from me. I have a trailer but my truck only gets 12 miles to a gallon. I am figuring probably $200 in fuel for the round trip plus the $450 for the engine. The main issue here is ecause I am so far away I cant really take a look at the engine or hear it run much less water test it in person without making the 3 1/2 hour trip which will have to be in my truck with the trailer in case I purchase the boat. What is everyone's opinion on this situation?