You can do either which ever is the easiest for you. Just remember if you have a short shaft mtr now you may want to up grade to a long shaft mtr some day.
In the nonrepair outboard section the OP posted a couple threads all with the same problem. Basically his antivent plate is above the bottom of his hull by .5-.75 of an inch and thinks its killing his performance. I have asked for more info and am awaiting an answer