Gen1 VS Gen2

[Lou_F]

OK, Real stupid newbie question. I recently bought my first boat which has a 3.0 Mercruiser, Alpha 1. What does Gen 2 mean? I assume it is Second Generation?

If so, how do I know if I have this or a Gen 1? What are the differences?

 

[jsferra1]

Re: Gen1 VS Gen2

need the serial number of the drive, and it can be looked up.



Also if you add that info to your Sig, when you ask for help they will have it, just look at the bottom of this post and you will see mine.

Have a good one.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Gen1 VS Gen2

Post the year if you know it off of the top of your head.....
Merc went from gen 1 to 2 in 1990, so.....
Say hi to Ed Layton, if ya see him.....

 

[chiefalen]

Re: Gen1 VS Gen2

90' was the first year.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Gen1 VS Gen2

The obvious way to tell them apart is the shape of the skeg. If the trailing edge is at an angle not perpendicular to the bullet, it's a Gen 2. The trailing edge of the skeg of a Gen 1 is perpendicular to the bullet.

"What are the differences?"

Everything. A Gen 2 is not compatible to a boat that had a Alpha One. A gen 2 is physically larger and can't bolt on. It's stronger, has bigger gears and bearings, and the impeller is larger, pumps more water and lasts longer. What else is there?

 

[Don S]

Re: Gen1 VS Gen2

1991 was the first year of the Gen II outdrives. That does not mean a 1991 boat has a Gen II drive, there is about a 50-50 chance it's an original Alpha I.