Propper ratio Bravo 3 with 496 on 290

[Cool Runnings]

I repowered my '94 290 Sundancer in 2005 from the original 454 to a Mercruiser Mag Bravo 496 (8.1L). Now I need a complete new outdrive and transom assembly also. I am not sure what the ratio of the original drive was and if it was the propper ratio for the replacement engine. I certainly want to match the engine now. The twin ss props are the original as well. Please comment on the best ratio and also my best source to locate the Bravo 3 complete.
Thanks, Don

 

[No Name Sea Ray]

Look on the SeaRay.com / Customer Support / Model Archives

This will give you an idea of what your boat has and you can search for other newer boats that are a similar size and weight with your new motor to get an idea of your needed drive ratio as well as prop pitch.

Once you get it all replaced. Try it with the props you have then change from there if needed. you can buy good used props online for $400-700 to test out and sell yours if needed.

 

[shore]

2.0 ratio and 24p is stock.Mine is a 94.I have dropped to 22p because we hit a lot of no wake zones and getting on plane is much quicker with the 22p.You with that 496 will have no issue whatsoever spinning the 24p to about 4800 or so I would think.

Can you show me some pics of that installed?

I'd love to be able to justify that much coin in a swap.

Although the 496 is already axed my GM and the 502 is back.

 

[skibum]

Call Mercury and they can help. I called them about mine because SR used a 496 Mag with a 2.0:1 ratio and either 24p, or 26p props in 2005. Mine has a 496 Mag HO with a 2.2:1 ratio drive and 28p props. Merc asked a bunch of questions about RPMs, speeds, and GPH numbers. According to them, my boat is setup just fine as the bulk of my cruising speeds and RPMs fall smack into the "meat" of power curve for the engine. Right where they ought to be.

The only downside is that it is difficult to give her "just a little" power sometimes. Every nudge of the throttle makes her move.