Alpha One vs Volvo SX

[sailsmanship]

What is a more reliable outdrive when coupled with a 5.0 or 5.7 Mercriser/Volvo motor ?

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: Alpha One vs Volvo SX

I'd say they're about even. Both are excellent drives. I personally prefer the SX mechanically, but just about every dealership on the planet fixes MerCruisers. Finding VP servicing dealers is much more difficult. In our area, MerCruiser servicing dealers outnumber Volvo Penta servicing dealers by at least 10 to 1. That and the basic MerCruiser outdrive has been around since the dawn of MerCruiser time. VP SXs are kinda the new kid on the block in comparison.

 

[Don S]

Re: Alpha One vs Volvo SX

While the SX version is new, the technology (Cone clutch shifting) is the same as the older 280/290 style Volvo drive and the first outdrive put on a boat for that matter. Before Mercruiser.<br /> Volvo History Click on 1950<br />Mercruiser Alpha drives are still the dog style clutch and needs a shift interrupt system to work.<br />Also with the Volvo, you could go to the dual prop version instead of the single prop. Something you can't do with an Alpha. Even if you went to the Bravo III Drives instead of the Alpha, the B3 is'nt as effecient as the Volvo DP-S drive.

 

[jeffmcc]

Re: Alpha One vs Volvo SX

i have owned both believe me a volvo is the best difference between a chevy and a mercedes i'd do anything to get my volvo back now i have this piece of **** merc oh ya both i bought brand new

 

[marinemech]

Re: Alpha One vs Volvo SX

volvo was first <br />volvo was best<br />volvo is best

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Alpha One vs Volvo SX

Both are good drives. Obviously the VP has some advantages. Smoother shifting being one of the biggest I can think of.<br />I do know that service & parts for VP will be more expensive than for Mercruiser. <br />If you want an idea of parts prices, just go to dougrussell.com, and go into their parts catalog.<br />Best of luck to ya!

 

[mercrewser]

Re: Alpha One vs Volvo SX

Volvo Penta may have better resale value. Superior engineering than the outdated and lacking Alpha 1. But, the Alpha does work and I've never had a problem (have owned 3). Id definatley go with the Vp if given a choice. Alphas shift harshly into gear compared to anything with a silky smooth cone clutch. That clunking in and out of gear will ware on your nerves after a lot of tight maneuvering in marinas.