I have installed a few MK units. I have heard of some trouble with the 3X steering, but the unit's I have installed have not had a problem.
The 3X steering is a feel thing. You will get use to it.
The unit your looking at is pretty small for that boat. I'd opt to the 80lb thrust.
It's like buying a larger outboard. Just because you have that much power, doesn't mean you will use it. Yet if you need it, you have it.
The last install was removing a 80lb MK and installing a 101lb MK. "MORE POWER"
As to the mounting system. A lot of these "Factory" mounts will still let the motor flop around when strapped down and running thru chop. This is very hard on the motors and as a result they can have problems.
This may have something to do with the ones I've installed NOT having problems, as I don't use these factory quick detach mounts and the motors ride rock solid in chop.
It's a bunch of work to install one like I do, but the customers are happy and it is how I would do it to my own rig.
Wiring plays a big role here too. I'm betting the Scout you have has strands of 6ga wire to the front of the boat. That would be bare min., maybe? If the wiring is to small the performance of the motor will suffer.
The thing is, most people don't think about that and thus blame the motor as a POS.
This mounting is thru bolted with alum backing plates. None of those expanda nuts here.
The piece of 3/4in Starboard serves 2 purposes. It raises the unit to clear the rail and gives a nice finished look to the forward end of the mount.
