Gear ration of a 1981 merc outdrive

[Cast-A-Way]

Good evening everyone.

I was just wondering if anyone can tell me if the gear ratio on a 1981 merc 225 hp would be ok to couple up to a 1973 188hp.

My outdrive is shot and I am looking for a donor boat

 

[Cast-A-Way]

This is the outdrive I am looking at

 

[Bondo]

1981 merc 225 hp would be ok to couple up to a 1973 188hp.

Ayuh,..... They both should be 1.50:1 gear ratio,.....

 

[Cast-A-Way]

Thank you. Anything special I should look for other than cracks and oil in lower unit.

I will also need the gimbal housing. I will check the pins for movemenr

 

[Cast-A-Way]

Also is it safe to assume that the 225hp that I am looking at is a bigger v8 than the 188 I currently have...I know it may be a silly question but I may consider doing a full swap

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,..... I'm Guessin' the 225 hp is a 305 Chevy, with a 4bbl. carb,.....
Or, possibly,.....
A 350 Chevy with a 2bbl. carb,.....

I suppose it could be a 302 Ford like yer's, with a 4bbl. carb,.....
I think the 235 hp was a 351 Ford, 2bbl carb,....

With "Used" stuff, you inspect Everything possible,..... even an oil sample if ya can,....