Re: just bought a starfcraft
Cool looking boat and nice project!
I had a 14 3/4 x 17 prop on my 16.5' 72 SeaSwirl with a Mercruiser 140HP, but I'd bet my boat was a lot heavier than your aluminum hull,,, maybe a 19 pitch? $100 for a new prop is a pretty good.
Since the engine and drive are in unknown condition I would start there, run a compression test, check fluids, check for water in oil (engine and outdrive) check bellows for cracks/holes, remove outdrive (look for water, service gimble bearing and U-joints), replace impeller and water pump housing, change fluids, ignition tune-up. The manifold is going to be a spendy item.
I'm wondering what's going on with the (looks to be 1 1/2") cooling hose that comes off the thermostat housing and goes into never-never land in the bilge? This hose should be a short 90 degree bent hose that connects to the front of the manifold.
To get engine and outdrive answers from the pro's, post another thread in the Mercruiser I/O forum. Lots of knowledge available there.