Thanks for all the input and suggestions, it's appreciated. I am not in a position to purchase a new motor at this time and as was mentioned buying another used one just invites more potential challenges...plus they're pretty darned expensive. Jack (Nanook) put me in touch with a mechanic in Buckhorn, so I will talk to him, see if he will take a closer look at the motor and I will go from there.
Thanks again
Maureen