Merc drives

[waterspider]

We are looking to purchase a 2009 230 Select with a 350mag.
This boat has an Alpha drive. Most we have looked at were Bravo drives.
Is this good or bad? Help please.:huh:
Thanks

 

[JerryS]

Take a look at this web page, it has a picture of a drive in the right middle of the page, let it auto change from one drive to the next and it will give you a brief description of each drive and what the recommended use is:
http://www.victorymarine.com/drives.html

 

[BUSTMUP]

We had a Alpha drive for 14 years on a 18 ft. bowrider with a 3.0L and it was a dependable outdrive. I now have a 220 bowrider that is similar to the 230 and about the same weight. It has a 350 MAG with a Bravo 3 and I absolutely love it. It will get on plane in a about 4 seconds. I think the 230 with the Alpha will plane a lot slower. Something to think about if you are planning on a lot of watersports. Good luck.

Jeff

 

[paulswagelock]

A few thoughts. There are several comparison tests out there that always show slightly higher top end speed with the A1. However, the test also shows faster time to plane, better fuel economy, lower plane speeds, improved handling with the B3.
Resale value will be hurt with the A1 and might limit potential buyers.
Strike damage will be considerably less expensive to fix with an A1.
More corrosion issues on B3 than A1.

So consider where and how you will use the boat, how long you plan to keep her, and your local market preference for lower units.

 

[joeycleland]

Having had both the Bravo is the way to go. Plane speed, holeshot, efficiency, handling, Not to mention being able to back up straight (no torque steer) are all advantages. Plus most times your probably at 2500-3500 RPM and not WFO anyway. Most Basically your putting 15% more of everthing that makes a boat fun. Not that the alpha is a bad drive, but the bravo is a step up in almost every way.