Buying a new Alpha, Debating Changing the Gear Ratio

[greg82255]

Well, I just torched an Alpha drive by forgetting to put in gear lube. Rookie mistake. Now I am buying a new drive, but I remember a few guys talking about switching the ratio. It's a 383 stroker mated to a gen 1 alpha which was previously a 1.5 ratio. I've heard of a few guys going to higher ratios and pairing them with higher pitched props (I believe it was wca_tim that did this) and getting more speed out of their boats. Just curious if anyone had any insight into this subject. I'd like to order a new drive asap.

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Buying a new Alpha, Debating Changing the Gear Ratio

Well, I just torched an Alpha drive by forgetting to put in gear lube.........................Champ II - 1986 Formula 206 Spider, Vortec 383 Stroker/Alpha One (until it blows up, then maybe a Bravo)

Yeah. I would do a Bravo too (also) !

 

[Tail_Gunner]

Re: Buying a new Alpha, Debating Changing the Gear Ratio

That is intresting larger prop same revs and higher speed's... i believe someone left out drag. It would be nice for a elaboration on this...As to drives i just picked up a sei for a 454 after a bit of research... we will see how it goes. In your case you would have a 3 yr warranty. Along this journey i have met more than a few merc guy's that spit at this drive but it is the same drive and the parts interchange.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Buying a new Alpha, Debating Changing the Gear Ratio

Well, I just torched an Alpha drive by forgetting to put in gear lube. Rookie mistake. Now I am buying a new drive, but I remember a few guys talking about switching the ratio. It's a 383 stroker mated to a gen 1 alpha which was previously a 1.5 ratio. I've heard of a few guys going to higher ratios and pairing them with higher pitched props (I believe it was wca_tim that did this) and getting more speed out of their boats. Just curious if anyone had any insight into this subject. I'd like to order a new drive asap.

Ayuh,.... There Used to be 1.32:1 gear sets available, used with the BBC's, 'n for some reason some 351 Windsors,.....

I haven't seen a New set available for Years,....

Donno why you'd ever wanta got to a 1.65:1,... you'd need props in the mid- hi- 30"s, +

What kinda barge ya pushin' with the Stroker,..??

 

[Tail_Gunner]

Re: Buying a new Alpha, Debating Changing the Gear Ratio

I believe I just came to a answer of some sort. The gearing on the 1.8 gears are larger less gears lager width. That should make them more durable...maybe not but for now I will stick to the appropriate gearing

 

[greg82255]

Re: Buying a new Alpha, Debating Changing the Gear Ratio

I am pushing a Formula 206 Spider - I ended up just buying the 1.47 ratio from SEI. I didn't want to lose any more boating days this summer by debating what to do. The boat is going to be up for sale at the end of the year anyways.

 

[Tail_Gunner]

Re: Buying a new Alpha, Debating Changing the Gear Ratio

Follow the break'n procedures closely,