mercruiser 120 transom plate differences between 68 pre alpha and 83-84 alpha

Joined
Feb 21, 2013
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14
so I've done a lot of searching and can't find an exact answer, hoping one of the experts will chime in.

i have a 68 startcraft holliday with the original (sn 2442960) mercruiser 120. the engine is locked up (stuck piston, water in # 4 cyl) I purchased an 83-84 (sn 6691880) complete engine and outdrive that runs. the transom plate on the late model was cracked and broken off on the bottom and the 2 bolts have no support to attach the gimbal housing through the transom to the plate.

so my question is, can i use the newer model engine (long block, using the older original manifold, riser and such) with the older transom plate and the newer alpha gimbal housing and the alpha outdrive/lower. I'm sure this has been discussed but I'm drawing a blank in my searches.

any tips ? I'm looking at replacing the transom wood ( a few soft spots on the corners) bellows ,and definitely the gimbal bearing, u joints and all the seals while I'm in. I'm mainly just wanting to know if the transom hole will need modified or if i can use the old plate. worse case ill just swap blocks and be good, but id like to upgrade to the alpha drive if possible, or am i better off using the pre alpha stuff? any insight, links or advice is much appreciated.

thanks,
Jay
 
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