I need an outdrive! Mercruiser 233 (351w) or compatible outdrive. What do I look For?

[newfie11]

Let me start by saying this is my first real boat and I know NOTHING.

I just purchased a '76 reinell 24 ft cabin cruiser with a flybridge. It has a 351w ( 233 ) that has just been rebuilt and runs good. The problem is that the outdrive has been completely removed and discarded. I can't seem to find an actual 233 outdrive used anywhere.

I am trying to figure out what outdrives are compatible so I know what to look for. I know the original gear ratio was 1.32:1. Is it wise to buy an outdrive with a different ratio and change it or is it even possible?

I am trying to get this thing in the water as inexpensive and as easy as possible.

What are my options?

Any help would be greatly appriciated.

 

[Bondo]

Re: I need an outdrive! Mercruiser 233 (351w) or compatible outdrive. What do I look

Ayuh,...

I'd look into an SEI drive in 1.50:1,... Then reprop it...
I don't believe the 1.32:1 is available...

 

[45Auto]

Re: I need an outdrive! Mercruiser 233 (351w) or compatible outdrive. What do I look

OH NO!!!!!!

Don't change gearing on the outdrive then re-prop it!!! Everyone knows that won't work!!!! Messes up all that horsepower and torque and stuff!!!!

 

[newfie11]

Re: I need an outdrive! Mercruiser 233 (351w) or compatible outdrive. What do I look

Ayuh,...

I'd look into an SEI drive in 1.50:1,... Then reprop it...
I don't believe the 1.32:1 is available...

what pitch should I look for to compensate for the lower gear ratio?

 

[Don S]

Re: I need an outdrive! Mercruiser 233 (351w) or compatible outdrive. What do I look

what pitch should I look for to compensate for the lower gear ratio?

If you want to go the 1.50 ratio and change the prop, your best bet would be to start a new thread on the prop forum.

 

[Bondo]

Re: I need an outdrive! Mercruiser 233 (351w) or compatible outdrive. What do I look

OH NO!!!!!!

Don't change gearing on the outdrive then re-prop it!!! Everyone knows that won't work!!!! Messes up all that horsepower and torque and stuff!!!!

Ayuh,... Contradicting myself, Ain't I,...?....

I keep seeing NLAs when I look for 1.32 gears or drives....

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bond-o
Ayuh,...

I'd look into an SEI drive in 1.50:1,... Then reprop it...
I don't believe the 1.32:1 is available...
__________________________________________________________________

what pitch should I look for to compensate for the lower gear ratio?

Considering you have No history,..... probably a 19" or 21"....

 

[45Auto]

Re: I need an outdrive! Mercruiser 233 (351w) or compatible outdrive. What do I look

Just joking with you Bond-O!

I keep seeing NLAs when I look for 1.32 gears or drives....

Yep, sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do!

 

[jimbo3123]

Re: I need an outdrive! Mercruiser 233 (351w) or compatible outdrive. What do I look

I know this is kind of an old thread, but it is relevant to my question.

I'm trying to locate a replacement prop for my 1977 mercruiser 233.

According to this site: http://www.seilermarine.com/info/mercruiser-drive-ratio-chart.htm, the sterndrive is a 1.5 gear ratio. The thread poster says that his 233 has a different ratio (not sure how he knows that though)

The prop selection chart section of the service manual (downloaded from iboats) is missing.

Anyone have any suggestions for finding my gear ratio and then picking out a prop?

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: I need an outdrive! Mercruiser 233 (351w) or compatible outdrive. What do I look

The size of the boat will figure into the equation, & whether you are going with steel or aluminum....
Like Bondo said, a 14.25 X 19-21 would be where to start...
The HP on a 351W is not that dissimilar from a GM 350, which uses the 1.50:1 ratio.....