Okay guys, need some help with some repowering thoughts

I am running the 275-hp Lincoln motors in my early model Commander 38, and they're well oiled, tuned, and run reasonably well, but I know the resale value of the boat is low with these motors, and I have been considering a repower in the future for a couple of reasons.

I want to keep the boat because I have so much time getting everything the way I want it. The cabin is neat and clean, and we generally love the boat.

In the future we know we'll have to eventually sell the boat due to our age and health issues. I know during the next ten years, I'll probably be faced with some kind of a rebuild or repower with these old engines, and I am considering a pre-emptive repowering before they force me to do it on their schedule.

Now before everyone jumps my case, please listen to my reasons for thining about small blocks in this boat. I like the thought of using small blocks because parts are plentiful, and they can be considered almost consumable. I can get a replacement short or long block for next to nothing, so I wouldn't be afraid to run those small motors hard if I wanted to. The cost of these motors is very attractive. The smaller motors would fit into the Commander hull with a huge amount of room to spare. I can still get 250 to 275-hp from them, at less torque, but fuel consumption could be an issue in the future too, as oil prices continue to climb.

So here is my thinking, I'm considering small block (Chevrolet) power in the boat, a pair of 350 GM marine motors with marine cams and 4-bolt mains of course for maximum torque, and new transmissions to go with them. My Lincolns have parts that are very hard to find these days, and the small block chevy motors have a parts availability that is just unmatched.

If I do this I suspect I can retain the same 1-3/8" shafts but may have to change out the props. Speed is not an issue with us, as we almost never ever run the boat at maximum throttle, as this just isn't our style of boating, and all it does is consume huge amounts of fuel and run the risk of damaging the motors.

Thoughts please, including the potential resale of the boat with small block motors in it. Would a potential buyer look favorably on "new GM 350s" or would he run for cover?

thanks in advance,

Dave