I also have a bimini top for the boat, but haven't tried to mount it yet.  I was able to ride it a bit the other day.  Motor runs great, but I sorta lost thrust while I was on the water.  Would get me up on plane, but not when I had friends in there.  Motor would be screaming, but not actually moving the boat much.  Ordered a wear ring, looks like a pretty big gap in there right now.  Also ordered the driveshaft rebuild kit, just in case.
Still want your tubes whenever you get your new ones!