I have the M-18 in my Mark II (1988). I realize that when the time comes and I decide to move the boat from Lake Lanier (north of Atlanta, GA) to the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) for coastal cruising, I will be challenged with the 14 horsepower in heavy tidal/current areas like Georgia and the Carolina's. A three bladed prop for a bit more torque might help, but the M-18 was short lived on the Mark II and even as an optional engine because it was not a great improvement over the earlier Universal with 11 horsepower. The three cylinder M-22 and M-25 would suffice if I decided to repower. Your in the Gulf and these engines would provide the power to get you ahead and out of trouble. Tough choice I know, but if your going through all that trouble or removal and replacement consider the larger engine, which I understand will fit just fine. By the way I was on my buddy's 1980 Cat 30 with the M-11 years ago on a run from Pensacola, Fla to Mobile, Ala. When power was needed the damn thing was slow!!!!!!
Bob