From the picture, it does not look like this engine will be coming back in but once the daunting task of pulling the engine apart is overcome, things looked a bit less gloomy.
The piston rings and bore didn't look too bad. The head gasket had ruptured, but on the dry side and the Bukh agent was adamant that the two o-ring at the bottom of the cylinder sleeve did not leak water so water could only have come through the gasket. The head is being pressure tested now. Not the best coffee table in the cockpit! We will lift it with the boom to have better access.
The change to Diecon option quickly died because it required to change the prop and there was not way to get around on the slip and slim chance to take prop off underwater. With all the minor adaptation required, costs would evened between a new 24 HP Bukh and the lower quality non marine designed Diecon (Bukh uses a left hand prop, old fashioned!!!!) so still trying to save on cost by fixing the old Bukh as long as it can be done quickly. Spares cost is a killer though
A great thanks to Jock, from boat next door, who's is being fantastic help throughout and generously shared his expertise and time!
