Can you run twin mercs with non matching drives?

[AlphaJustin]

My boat has gen 1 alpha drives on it and the port drive needs a rebuild, a buddy of mine has an old pre-alpha that came off his old boat with the same size engine my question is can I use his drive next to my good alpha without completely messing things up until I can get mine rebuilt? If not can you tell me why? Obviously it's better if they match but they are the same gear ratio and manufacturer just different years and I'd prefer not to miss the end of the boating season if I don't have to. Thanks.

 

[Bondo]

but they are the same gear ratio

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,.... So long as they're the same ratio, Sure, it'll work just Fine,.....

 

[Eric 3.7LX Alpha 1]

Double check the shaft lengths are the same. Some older drives used shorter yoke shaft. If you use the shorter shaft and yours is the longer style, it won't reach far enough into the coupler splines... and damage the coupler.

Would have to swap shafts to run the older drive.

 

[AlphaJustin]

Thank you guys. That's great news I'll definitely measure them to be absolutely sure their the same I know the ratio is the same for sure so I'm glad I can use them together to get through the season I appreciate it and the quick responses.