I have this 98 savage with about 11k miles on the engine.  I looked into it and it was determined that I have some play in the connecting rod where it meets the crankshaft.  I supposedly need a new crankshaft assembly and and new crankshaft bearings.  Things af that nature are pretty deep in the engine, and I've done some intense engine work before, but would it be easier to find/buy a whole new engine?  One that's in good shape.  It could actually be cheaper to buy a new engine but I'm having some trouble finding a good one.

A salvage bike from one of the flood areas may be a good donor.  Take what you need and sell the rest, and still make a some $$ at the end of the deal.