225 Merc Lower Unit?

[VPN]

I blew the lower unit in my '99 Merc 225 Opti yesterday. Cruising at about 4800 rpms, I heard a grinding noise then the motor shut down. I was pretty suprised to find that the shattered parts from inside the lower unit had pierced the outside of the lower unit creating what looks like a bullet hole.

What might this cost to repair? Will the hole in the lower unit need to be replaced or can it be welded?

Thanks in advance for any postings and please do not use this post as a forum to bash motor brands. Thanks!!!

[Tomp]

You will probably need a new power head and prop. Other than that is should be pretty good. Must have been abit exciting I suppose....Tommy

[VPN]

Very Exciting, escpecially since it happened 10 miles from the nearest landing.

Any ideas on cost of repair?