The Gilbert Instrument Corporation is considering replacing the wood steamer it currently uses to shape guitar sides. The steamer has 6 years of remaining life. If kept, the steamer will have depreciation expenses of $650 for 5 years and $325 for the sixth year. Its current book value is $3,575, and it can be sold on an Internet auction site for $4,150 at this time. If the old steamer is not replaced, it can be sold for $800 at the end of its useful life. You are provided the information below about the high-end steamer (Side Steamer 3000) Gilbert is considering purchasing. It costs $12,000 and has an estimated useful life of 6 years with an estimated salvage value of $1,500. This steamer falls into the MACRS 5-year class, so the applicable depreciation rates are 20.00%, 32.00%, 19.20%, 11.52%, 11.52%, and 5.76%.The new steamer is faster and allows for an output expansion, so sales would rise by $2,000 per year; the new machines much greater efficiency would reduce operating expenses by $1,900 pe year. To support the greater sales, the new machine would require that inventories increase by $2,900, but accounts payable would simultaneously increase by $700. Gilberts marginal federal-plus-state tax rate is 40%, and the project cost of capital is 15%.

Should the company replace the old steamer? Show your work