Any boat in "good shape in and out" is worth that. Jet, v drive, or even an outboard that is water worthy and just needing power is a good deal. I question the F (N) R aspect of the casale, are you sure its not just N and F?As far as your 396, remember the v drive/prop will allow the engine to rev higher than the jet, so beware of over reving the 96, know what gears are in the v drive and what prop is on the boat before the first water test, and hang on to your sanity when it really starts to PULL!!!!!!...........MP