Stripped threads on VP stern drive drain.

[bobkatfly]

So I finally did it last October. When winterizing, I stripped the lower unit threads with the drain plug. I'm always careful with this as I know about galling in certain materials but this time I'm not sure how it happened. Probably a small piece of grit that I didn't get out before installing. Its a DP series unit.
So, I'm left with the following options:
1) Chase threads to original size. Risk of getting proper thread reforming.
2) Re-tap to larger thread size. Enough wall thickness??
3) Install stainless insert with original plug threads. Enough wall thickness??
4) Use an expandable rubber plug. Don't trust.
5) New lower housing. $$$

1, 2 & 3 run the risk of aluminum chips getting into the unit so I wouldn't feel comfortable doing it without disassembling the housing first. I'm leaning towards 2 or 3 but not sure how much metal I have to work with.
Anyone else faced this and what did you do?
Anyone have a good #6?
TIA
Edit. #5 would actually be new bearing carrier, not the whole housing.