DE32 Repower: Petite Putt-Putt or Muscle Car? Engines and Such Forums

Thanks in advance for your thoughts and prayers... 

My Farymann 24hp R30 is in parts in my settee and there's a hole in the ocean calling my name! 

It's my impression that most DE32s have been repowered with Yanmar 27s but I'm more interested in the Beta Marine motors. At first, I thought the 30hp would be a good choice, but the dealer here is highly recommending a 35 or 38hp.

I have not run the dimensions to determine fit, but analyzing the performance data... Dealer says the 30hp with a 3 blade, 16" 12 pitch LH prop, 20,000-22,000 lbs. gross weight, 25' 10" LWL will give me 5.9 kts at 3600 RPM. He also suggests getting the prop 'squared' - that is, the diameter and pitch being as similar as possible, as it's most efficient when they match.

This article suggests a 2 blade to reduce sailing drag, but since I'm in Puget Sound (wind, waves, current), 3 blade may be better. https://l-36.com/rebuild_joe.php

Since I have to sell this boat when I retire in a few years, I'll have barely broken the engine in by that time... so if you were buying a DE32, which motor would you consider the better value option for this repower?

Any other suggestions during my 'tip toe over the hot coals' are very much recommended!

Thanks again,

John