Chosen Solution
If I replace the MOBO with one from iFixit, do I have to install an OS from scratch? Or is there a version of Android pre-installed? I’ve looked everywhere, but have yet to find an answer to this question on the web.
Since this is still flagged as unanswered and since your last name sounds vaguely familiar… Reflashing the device is nothing to be hesitant about I’ve done mine myself a couple of times. Here is a guide for the process if your device is still having a problem…. reflash factory image nexus 7 While tablets have gotten better in the last four years I still use mine to run my home brew home entertainment remote web page user interface. Home entertainment remote
