I like doing things myself even if it takes two times as long and cost twice as much... LOLI agree, that thing looks great! Some engines issues it sounds like but once solved it should serve you very well. Would it be worth just paying the dealer to diagnose the engine issues? Not sure how much that would cost, but that may be an option to get you quickly on the right track.
Unless you want to tackle it all yourself, then forget what I said!
I really don't need it this year but want to have this done by next year this time, that's enough time to do it right.
I will keep this thread going with progress pictures.
I really appreciate all the replies, I have new motivation.