Merc Alpha 2 Drive for Diesels

[qystan]

Merc has a 1.7L diesel rated at 116hp. It comes mtched with the Alpha 2 drive. I had a look and noticed it does not use the shift-cutout switch. It has the same shiftplate and lower shift cable arrangement, but no cutout switch.<br /><br />The idle rpm of this engine is 800-1200 rpm and this is not an engine with electronic controls. <br /><br />How did they overcome the shift-cutout switch thing?<br /><br />Looking at this from the angle of converting a truck diesel for marine use with the Alpha drive.<br /><br />Thanks.

 

[Don S]

Re: Merc Alpha 2 Drive for Diesels

Rodbolt posted this once before, diesels run rough enough (even if you can't feel it) to allow the shift to release without any type of cutout switches.

 

[Trent]

Re: Merc Alpha 2 Drive for Diesels

Actually I brought this up many months ago. Rodbolt did reply and was correct. As Don said. The diesels run rough enough that you dont need a shift interrupt switch. And yes I do learn stuff everyday.. Thanks Rodbolt and Don.

 

[qystan]

Re: Merc Alpha 2 Drive for Diesels

That's interesting. Great info, gives a good start to the dream. <br /><br />Gas prices over here are a crime (taxes) but diesels are about half (US2.30 a gal vs $3.37 for a gal of gas) and I like the range for the same tank volume.<br /><br />Thanks guys.<br /><br />Trent, were you doing some coversion?