Alpha1 vs Bravo questions

[winter]

I just bought my first I/O powered boat after many many OB's. It's a 92 Persuader 20' with a stock 350 and Alpha-1 outdrive. As i've read over the ye4ars, the Bravo finds its way on the back of some boats with big power. I intend to, in time, up the power of the 350 and was wondering what i need to do in the outdrive dept. to handle the power. I'm not going nuts, but with a simple refreshening and a bit more tweeks, I'd think 350-400 hp would be perfect.

#1 Am i to assume the biggest difference between A1 and B. is the B is built stronger?

#2 What is the limit of the A1 now? I currently use a 24p mirage.

#3 how is a drive comprimised? Jumping out of the water under power and slamming the prop back in i'm usre is no good. what else?

#4 Are these simply bolt off bolt on or are there modifications that need to be done?

#5 What doe these things cost?

Thanks for putting up with the newbie questions!

 

[Big Dave]

Best way to change to a bravo is to change transom assy as Alpha t/a has smaller gimble
We are running 350+ hp(sounds like a dragster when we start it up) thru a home rebuilt alpha into our 2nd season w/ no problem
running a 22p 4blade (wfo over 5700 rpm) but usually use this as a ski/wakeboard boat
with a really loud exhaust(why invest in a stereo no one could hear anyway)

 

[Big Dave]

I told the wife I needed a bigger prop to test wot and top speed, and she said: h@!! no

 

[winter]

That's cool, wasn't sure how they hold up. Sounds like i'll be OK for awhile.

 

[bigsbetter]

Run it till it breaks. If and when you start adding more power, I would rec. using Mercruiser High Performance Outdrive lubricant, if you don't allready.

 

[Big Red]

Wave jumping is no good on any drive. Their is no time limit or hour limit on any drive. Use good gear lube change the oil often and do not have the idle cranked up when putting it in gear that will make your drive last longer than anything. Add a cooling shower and try not to hammer out of the hole every time you take off

 

[JW]

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Simrec drive showers rock. Check here:

http://www.driveshowers.com/

You can also call them and ask about the Alpha drive showers. Good people to talk to.

 

[Wide Open]

Amen JW. Paul does a great job on his showers. The new "no drill" pieces are really cool, and install in about 10 minutes. We carry them in our store. Great product!!

J