Long story but I will try to make it short.
05 Nitro 929 CDX DC, great shape, new carpet , seats, fish finders, trolling, radio, most wiring, batteries.  05 225 opti just blew lower end, won't go into gear.  This happened after taking to my machinic because it wouldn't plane.  He ended up changing plugs and dialing it to run better, paid $485. He wanted  me to test it.  Took it out and lost the lower unit in minutes.   Brought it back and he drained the lower end and we saw black lube and some silver shavings.  Suggested to put SEI lower end in for about 2k but is concerned with compression numbers.  #1 92 / 95 / 100 / 100 / 85 / 90 in order.  Don't know how he tested but it is at a reputable dealer and where i store and service my boat.  Bought it in 3/2017 with 599 hours on the engine from South Carolina probably put less than 100 hours since then.  I am in Buffalo so my fishing window only goes to 12/1.   Should I be concerned with the compression numbers and age of it?  I have can get a brand new 200 merc for 13k plus install taxes and parts (if needed) from Bass Pro.   Ideas?

Totally a financial call.  I blew the LU out of my 2005 HPDI Yamaha last year with 420 hours on it.  I opted to go with a new oem LU.  Price tag was $4000 installed.  I have heard godo and bad about SEI lowers.  I had that option as well as having the mechanic rebuild mine because there was nothing wrong with my outer case. I chose a whole new oem.  As long as your pressure is within 10% highest to lowest you are ok but your mechanic can do a quick evaluation of your cylinders and pistons with a bore scope.