mercruiser 888 302, switching outdrive

[shmimc1973]

Well Im back on here again. I got a 73 22' reinell Im restoring. Im not takin the chance with the 302 in it, cast plugs blown out, thinking of ordering a 302 long block. I also want to replace the transom mount, as its got some heavy pitting on it. Now my outdrive is one of those MC-1 pre alpha drives, After tearing into it, seeing both shafts need replaced, bearings, etc. The cost of this is gonna be fairly high.. So my question is, I find alpha 1 drives and there prices are not bad. But,,,,, will I have to change my gimbel housing? Or with a alpha 1 drive bolt up to it. Mine is in great shape and didnt want to replace it if it will work. From what I have kinda gathered is it will bolt right up, but wanted to hear from others and if anyone else has done this, Thanks

 

[Bondo]

Re: mercruiser 888 302, switching outdrive

I also want to replace the transom mount, as its got some heavy pitting on it.
But,,,,, will I have to change my gimbel housing?

Ayuh,... In 1 sentence you say yer changing the transom mount, then you ask if the Alpha will mount to the gimbel,..??..??..??

The gimbel is apart of the transom, so whata ya gonna do,..??

Yes, an Alpha 1 will bolt onto most pre-alpha gimbels...

 

[frank246]

Re: mercruiser 888 302, switching outdrive

In your case not the Alpha Gen II