The Alpha and B1 has the same size hub/barrel and run the same props. The big difference is, that a boat with an Alpha will usually require one type of prop, where a B1 boat another. It boils down to the fact that the Alpha boats are normally smaller with less power and slower. If you run a Maximus or B1 prop on your Alpha there is a good chance you'll tear it apart. It is build for smaller diameter props that put less load on the drive compared to the Bravo 1. Regarding the rubber hub and the solid hub is a question about power and strength. Merc reccomends the impact absorbant rubber hub up to 380 hp and the solid hub for 400+ hp. There is also the XR 1.1/4" hub, and that will only fit XR size driveshafts.
Here is a list of the most commom uses of the different merc props. The order is random.
The props normally used on Alpha's are:
LaserII
Mirage+
Vensura
Revolution4
High Five
You can run the Maximus (15.25 or less dia.) and Bravo1 prop, but it is rare that an Alpha boat calls for this, and it can hurt the drive.
The props normally used on the Bravo 1, Bravo 1X, Bravo 1XR:
Mirage+
Revolution4
Bravo1
Maximus
Hydromotives, Herings ect.
You will of course see Bravo boats run some of the others as well, but these are the most common in high performance boating.
