From Alpha 1 To Bravo 1

Riv

Cadet
Joined
Jul 27, 2007
Messages
25
Trying to find out if changing from Alpha 1 to Bravo 1 necessary. Currently have 350 Mercruiser that produces 401 HP and 410 LBS torque @ 4800 rpm.
Alpha 1 is rated for 300 HP, and from what I understand, Bravo one will support 500 HP. I have also heard that a kit is available to switck from Alpha 1 to Bravo 1. The kit contains bell housing, transom plate and complete upper and lower unit, and sells for between $4000.00 to $5000.00. Have been told the weight difference is between 30 to 40 lbs. The weight difference is of no concern, as the back of the boat is arround 180 lbs lighter. If any body knows of a source to contact, that would also be helpful. I have also read other posts where some of you guys have 400+ HP motors with Alpha 1 drives, and not to go wide open throttle for hole shot.
 

Haut Medoc

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jun 29, 2004
Messages
10,645
Re: From Alpha 1 To Bravo 1

An Alpha behind a 400 HP engine ain't gonna last long......;)
They had a hard time with the 330 hp 454's.....
Dunno about a kit, but you are looking at more than 5K just in parts, imho......:)
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: From Alpha 1 To Bravo 1

A new transom shield assembly (includes cylinders and trim pump, inner transom shield, bellhousing, shift cable, basically complete) but does not include the drive, LISTS from Merc for about $7500, the outdrive lists for about $8800. you would still need props.
Have never heard of any aftermarket kits for what you are looking for.
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,082
Re: From Alpha 1 To Bravo 1

Ayuh,.....

There Ain't No Kits,.....

You gotta go Find the Used Parts to do it,......
To possibly get it done in the price frame you mention anyways......
You'll need EVERYTHING Aft of the rear motor mounts,+ a few pieces forward as well.......
 

HT32BSX115

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 8, 2005
Messages
10,083
Re: From Alpha 1 To Bravo 1

You can also get stuff on ebay. there's usually several Bravo I,II,III drives, transoms, props, parts, etc, there new and used some with "warranties" and some.....well.....without!!



I have bought a lot of ebay stuff from dealers that sell on ebay. not so much from individuals.


caveat emptor!


Rick
 

BAYLINER185

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 30, 2007
Messages
474
Re: From Alpha 1 To Bravo 1

I might be mistaken but I thought the BRAVO ONE and ALPHA ONE drives will interchange on the transom assemblies?

The bell housings on my bayliner 185 and 2755 are identical. One is a 189 hp V6 with ALPHA 1, my cruser is 300 HP 454 with BRAVO 1.

Again it seems to me that both are interchangeable but I may be wrong about that. Yes, I wouldnt want to put my alpha 1 on my 300 hp 454 motor as thats right at the limit of the alpha.
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,082
Re: From Alpha 1 To Bravo 1

The bell housings on my bayliner 185 and 2755 are identical. One is a 189 hp V6 with ALPHA 1, my cruser is 300 HP 454 with BRAVO 1.

Ayuh,...... You'd better have a Much Closer Look.......

They're Very Different.........
 

Haut Medoc

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jun 29, 2004
Messages
10,645
Re: From Alpha 1 To Bravo 1

Ayuh........
They are both black & look similar, but that's about it....;)
 

BAYLINER185

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 30, 2007
Messages
474
Re: From Alpha 1 To Bravo 1

I had a feeling I might be wrong lol......Well thats all good to know..Thats why Im here to learn what I dont know already!
 

blouderback

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Apr 6, 2006
Messages
304
Re: From Alpha 1 To Bravo 1

Go with a Bravo III. You'll love the hole shot and better slow speed manuevering!
 
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