Is a Verado to heavy for my 79' 23' savage?

[crsurf]

I just talked to a dealer about a new motor for my savage w/bracket. He said a 4 stroke would be too heavy for my boat. I guess the Verados are 650 lbs. Has any one run a verado or other 4 stroke on a 23 ? I am looking at the verado because I am already rigged for mercury. I would also like any info on the optimax 200-250s Thanks!