I am very happy with the 45, it is a comfortable boat with good performance and sea worthiness. I have had the boat for two years and so far no pod problems and I am amazed at the performance out of smaller diesels. That said I am prepared for them to bite me someday! I was told by IPS mechanics I talked to during my buying process that the boats that are used more often and maintain well have less issues.
Good luck with your handle issue, I thought Formula would have a solution. I actually was able to purchase a new front hatch over the master bed from them which saved the need to cut a larger hole in the deck.