Bravos vs Alphas

tank1949

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I am interested in purchasing a boat that has twin Bravo drives. The boat has been retrofitted from Alphas. I am somewhat familiar with Bravos but not an expert. Are they superior to alpha drives? What is the drawback?
 

Bondo

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Are they superior to alpha drives?

Ayuh,.... Heavier, Heavier duty, 'n a cone-clutch, far Better than an Alpha,....
 

thumpar

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The cone clutch in the Bravo is what I like most. The shifting is smooth. I went from a boat with an Alpha to one with a Bravo and love it.
 

mr300z87

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Had a boat with an Alpha, current boat has a Bravo, Don't think I would ever want to go back. Bravo is far superior.
 

tank1949

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383 Stroker and Bravo drives

I am interested in a boat that has been retro'ed with Mercruiser Bravos and 383 Strokers from Alpha and 350 Chevy blocks. Motors have Rochester 4 barrels and manual fuel pumps. I suspect if propped and trimmed correctly, these should max out at 4200-4400 range like there 350 Chevy counter parts. Owner stated that they burn regular gas, so no high compression heads. Does this RPM range sound right???
 

thumpar

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It actually sounds a little low. I would try to shoot for 4600 or maybe a tad more. Are you able to talk with the engine builder?
 

Bondo

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Ayuh,...... SBCs with 2bbl carbs are usually proped as low as ya say,....

SBCs with 4bbl. carbs are usually proped to 4400/ 4800 rpms at Wot,....

I always shoot for 4800 rpms,....


'n lets keep all yer questions 'bout this in one topic, not many topics,.....
 

tank1949

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Apr 4, 2013
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Ayuh,...... SBCs with 2bbl carbs are usually proped as low as ya say,....

SBCs with 4bbl. carbs are usually proped to 4400/ 4800 rpms at Wot,....

I always shoot for 4800 rpms,....


'n lets keep all yer questions 'bout this in one topic, not many topics,.....

So were are looing at about 400 more RPM? THX!
 
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