Will an Alpha 1, Generation One lower unit interchange with a Pre-Alpha lower unit?

[Joelk]

I may need to buy a replacement lower unit for my Pre-Alpha sterndrive.

I have read that the units will interchange, but want to confirm.

Is it as simple as taking one off and putting the other on? If not, what else would be needed.

How/why is the Alpha, better/stronger than the Pre-Alpha?

Thanks, Joel

 

[mercs4mark]

Re: Will an Alpha 1, Generation One lower unit interchange with a Pre-Alpha lower uni

I beiieve the lowers will interchange, the alpha design is better because they spiral cut the gears, giving the bearings an even load at various speeds.

 

[Joelk]

Re: Will an Alpha 1, Generation One lower unit interchange with a Pre-Alpha lower uni

Thanks for the reply.

I did some investigating and as it turns out, I have damage(upper gears) to the upper unit, instead of the lower unit.

Can I use an Alpha 1 Gen One Upper Unit with my pre-Alpha Lower Unit?

 

[mercs4mark]

Re: Will an Alpha 1, Generation One lower unit interchange with a Pre-Alpha lower uni

I think thats a different story....because your pre alpha bell housing is different on your boat and the input shaft maybe a different length. just a heads up...if you have had gear failer in the upper then it is a good idea to disassemble and clean your lower....metal particals from your upper gears can travel down and cause lower failer.

 

[achris]

Re: Will an Alpha 1, Generation One lower unit interchange with a Pre-Alpha lower uni

Uppers are also interchangeable. You will notice that the squared off upper will look a little 'odd' on the rounded bellhousing, but that's all, it's just looks.

Chris......
P.S. There is no such thing as a 'Pre-Alpha'. Depending on the year you will have either an MC-1, R or MR. If you have R or MR the bellhousing will also be squared off, so you will not see any difference.