I just recently bought a 29hp MB HD. I have put about 4 hours on it and now , I have a broken shaft. The shop that has my motor right now, says that I can either rebuild the original 36" drive, or buy a new 32" drive. I've been told that the best option is to get the new drive, however, that means I will also need a new prop to go along with the new drive. I (aka my wife) really don't want to spend another $1000 on this motor and was wondering if anyone else had another idea, or maybe a lower unit that they would be willing to part with.

From what I understand, the Longer the Shaft, the Better..

yes, I agree that a longer shaft allows for a flatter angle which is much more efficient, but the 32" shaft are built alot atronger than the older 36" shafts.