Re: vintage to alpha
i had a 1976 merc 233- the 233hp 351w engine with merc #1 outdrive. Replaced engine with ford 351w HO (285hp) from basic power in 1990, and shortly after the drive with a brand new mercruiser alpha gen 1 drive (cost more than the motor).<br />From my experience, if you can get away from mercruiser engine parts then your ok sticking with a ford engine.<br />The catch is, the transom mounting points for a ford with its bellhousing is different than chevy. So to stay with a ford engine you'll have to either stick with your original transom assembly or if you go to replace it you'll have to find used. I don't think new transom assemblies are even available. It's not that bad, I just did mine and got a whole transom assembly off ebay for $120 shipped (not including outdrive of course). They aren't completely obsolete and not hard to get if you know where to look, browse ebay to get an idea.<br />As for the drive, I inquired at a boat show to mercury directly about using an alpha drive on a 24' boat with a 285hp motor and "they said" the late model alpha is good to 300hp no problem. It's lasted me 10 years no problems internally, just outside is rotted.<br /><br />I don't know if i'd say chevy is the way to go because it's more common; sure there's more aftermarket and in the long run you'll be more secure with parts, and chevy is typically better in the hp department but the 351w is a solid reliable motor just the same. The only things you'll have to worry about are engine accessories like starter, alt., distributor, fuel pump, all which can be gotten below marine part prices and still meet marine requirements.<br /><br />cheapest way to go I think: ford 351w HO w/holley from basic power, something like $3200 and that's brand new engine. A new drive from sterndrive engineering for $1400 I think. If you want to go chevy, and the whole mercruiser route, I know brand new will cost much much more. If you can find a complete used setup that'll fit your transom whole, it might be comparable in cost.
