Bravo Question

[realbold]

I'm considering a Alpha to Bravo conversion. Got a line on good deal for a new transom. I know Bravos changed over the years and was wondering if old drives fit new transoms and if not what years did they change. Any help much appreciated.

[MOP]

Bolt pattern is the same you just need to drill two extra holes.

[realbold]

Thanks Phil and thats for the transom, but theres no problem bolting an old Bravo drive to a new Bravo transom?

[MOP]

Yes the newer gimbles have the valve in them for the oil reservoir, not sure what to do about that. I guess it could be blocked off, someone else needs to chime in!

[handfulz28]

Only the first year or so of Bravo production ('88-89) did not have the external resevoir. Have to check with a parts site for serial number verification.

I'm not sure how reliable this method is, but you might also be able to tell the difference because the "early" Bravo had the traditional drain hole on the forward bullet. Later units have the drain behind the prop.

[VetteLT193]

Thanks Phil and thats for the transom, but theres no problem bolting an old Bravo drive to a new Bravo transom?
Eddie and I have a 280 Formula with older B1's mounted to newer BIII assemblies. It works on that boat, so I assume it will work in all cases.

[realbold]

Thanks for the help! I'm still undecided on the conversion. That Volvo package Forrest has for sale sounds sweet but I'm concerned about parts cost and availability, and its 1,500 miles away.

[VetteLT193]

Swapping to a bravo 1 using used parts is affordable. Very affordable. It takes some heavy duty searching though to sniff out the deals.

[MOP]

But you may never need to call the (Maytag) Volvo man!

[realbold]

But you may never need to call the (Maytag) Volvo man!
It seems to have everything there but instructions. I know nothing about them and most mechanics around here, at least the ones I know are Merc.

[Cuda]

Is there anything wrong with the Alpha? How many hours are on it?

[realbold]

Is there anything wrong with the Alpha? How many hours are on it?
I'm restoring a 1977 boat which had pre-Alpha in rough shape. I didnt want to put that stuff back on it so I already sold it. Got a fresh SBC which should make 350-400 hp. Alpha would be cheaper, but how long would it last?:shocking: