280 da alpha drive or bravo is one better than the other

[ken]

We plan on buying a 280 da when we move to Georgia probably a 2004 model and I would like to know if there are any differences in the Alpha outdrives vs the Bravo outdrives.
thanks in advance, kEN

 

[Dave S]

Thr Bravo III drive is a more durable drive but the Alphas are more than adequate for the 280DA as well. Mercury's web site will explain some of the major differences between the drives. http://northamerica.mercurymarine.com/engines/inboards/sterndrives/

There have been a few threads already about the choice of the two drives. Here are a couple of them you may want to look at.

http://www.byowneryachts.com/forums/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=38117&highlight=#38117

http://www.byowneryachts.com/forums/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=36970&highlight=#36970

 

[Cap10Pat]

For this boat especially, there are many choices, and much depends on the power installed. You will find both single and dual engines. Smaller engines will and should have Alphas. One large engine may have a Bravo III. But there also may be Bravo I boats out there.

I'm not sure I ever heard Bravo III described as more durable than Alphas. The only repairs I've seen, personally, this year has been on Bravo IIIs. Alphas are quite capable until you get into the large block engines - and quite reliable. Plus they offer less water resistance and are cheaper to maintain. Bravo drives are all stronger outdrives and offer some gearing and prop alternatives - not only with Bravo III but also with Bravo I drives. So, it all depends.