Seacraft 20 1978 questions

[fishingproblem]

I just noticed that I have been a lurker since 2013 so please forgive my lack of contribution. I have enjoyed reading nearly everything on the site especially the impressive rebuilds. I am in Sandy Eggo which makes for slim pickings on Classic Seacrafts. I had my sights on a 23 Scepter I/O and lost out on it by 2 days after I lined up my cash.

I am interested in a 20 or 23 and am now looking at a 1978 20 (MA?). The transom was lowered 2" in 1988 to accommodate a short shaft motor. Do you think a 2" transom haircut is bad? Installing a splashwell would seem prudent or are there other drawbacks?

Aside from that what do you think about her?

David