Pre-Alpha Alpha compatability

[Scott in MN]

The gimble housing on my 1980 pre-alpha 228 has quite a bit of corrosion. Seems like there are plenty of Gen 1 Alpha drive units in good shape being parted out. It also seems like there are a lot of parts and maintenance compatibilities between the two. It makes me wonder how many of the parts are compatible.

Could I:
1. bolt an Gen 1 Alpha drive onto my pre-Alpha bell housing?
2. Bolt a Gen1 Alpha drive and bell housing on to my pre-Alpha Gimble?
3. Bolt a Gen1 Alpha drive, bell housing and Gimble Housing onto my pre-Alpha inner transom?

Any other mixtures I should include?

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Pre-Alpha Alpha compatability

#1 is a yes....
#2 it depends on the hinge pins.....
If you have the thread in type, it will not work on the older style, where the hinge pins are held in with the small keeper pins & no threads...
#3 It should bolt on, but you will have issues with the trim/tilt trim rams....
There are alot of subtle nuances....
Best to get as close to your vintage as possible.....
At least as far as the transom shild, gimbal ring, bell housing....​