Mercruiser 350 Alpha 1 Opinions

[djkoneffko]

I'm looking at buying a 2001 Hurricane Fundeck 201GS.

It is equipped with a 4 barrel carb version Mercruiser 350 Alpha 1.

I'm interested in opinions about this I/O package combo. Also what to look for in evaluating this I/O package prior to purchase.

Thanks much.

 

[Brentathon]

Re: Mercruiser 350 Alpha 1 Opinions

I'm very happy that my early 90's 5.7L Alpha One was very common, and made for a long time. Parts are everywhere, and engines/drives are cheap.

 

[bnicov]

Re: Mercruiser 350 Alpha 1 Opinions

You should at least get a marine mechanic to look over the engine and drive for you. Things like the condition of the bellows, drive oil, engine oil, compression test, water test (at least run it for several minutes on 'muffs' on the driveway), the list goes on and on. It's a good engine and a pretty good drive that has been around for a while. Parts are readily available and pretty much any marine mechanic can work on it.