Hi jon,
a) is out of the question
b) just have to hunt around if that is what you think, always a bit dicey but if cheap enough worth the risk
c) 13/14hp Chondas before the pandemic you could pick up for around the $400 new, they seem to have increased in price and supply is greatly reduced. The other downside with the Chondas is the don't come with a fuel tank which can be a major problem. Just google vertical shaft motors and you will see what is available on ebay
