87 larson 4.3 mericruiser

[Jmartin336]

I have a question for you all. I recently bought a boat. It is a 87 larson with a 4.3 mericruiser. The gears are completely grinded up in the out drive. The mechanic told me its 1600 for a SEI and like 3000 for a new one. I found one on Ebay for 500 with the same gear ratio (1.84) and looks to be exactly what I need. The only thing is my current outdrive is a alpha one 185/V6 and the one I was wondering if it would work came out of a 87 4.3 mericruiser but with a V6/262. Would this be compatible? Thanks

 

[tpenfield]

Outdrives are stupid, they don't care what engine they are attached to. If the outdrive is an Alpha of the same year/vintage and gear ratio, then you should be fine.

1987 . . . that would be the original Alpha One (right?)

How is the coupler on your engine, given that the gears are ground down?

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,...... Welcome Aboard,...... Sounds like the same drive, for the same motor,.......

4.3l Is 262 cid

 

[Jmartin336]

According to the mechanic the coupler was fine. It just sucks because I took the boat in because to be checked and they told me it was a shifter cable that was my issue and the bellows so I got it fixed. Then they call me when they fixed that issue to tell me the outdrive is shot. So it was pick up a boat for 750 that dont work or pay an extra 1600. I'm just trying to find a cheaper way out of this situation. So if you guys think that outdrive will work that's awesome. Will save me some money. Thanks for the replys

 

[Rick Stephens]

One thing about used outdrives, you kinda get what you pay for. There's a lot of possible hidden problems in an eBay outdrive. That said, the one you mentioned will bolt right up.