SEI replacement outdrives for mercruisers

[RJJohnson]

Does anyone have any experience with SEI outdrives ? My Alpha 1 gen 1 just went up and considering a new SEI . I was wondering if they are any good or just junk.

 

[RJJohnson]

My mechanic gave me 3 options. He will install a used drive that he has with a water pump kit for $1k, Install a new SEI aftermarket outdrive for $2k or install a new new mercruiser outdrive for $3k. My boat is a 1987 with a 2008 5.7 litre mercruiser in it. It has a value of around $7k and really dont have the $3k. Any advice on what to do ? I like the sei but I just dont know if they are any good.

 

[2fishy4u]

I replaced one of my upper with an SEI. Same one you need. While it is still working fine after 40 hours, the paint came off within a month in marine use. So you will have to get it painted properly if you want to put it in the ocean. I have heard it holds fine in lake water.

 

[Alumarine]

I'd buy and install the SEI drive myself.
If you can't install the drive I'd take option 1 for a grand if he gave me a 30-60 day warranty.

 

[Bondo]

He will install a used drive that he has with a water pump kit for $1k, Install a new SEI aftermarket outdrive for $2k or install a new new mercruiser outdrive for $3k

Ayuh,...... Buy the new SEI drive right here from iboats, 'n the gaskets set, 'bout $1300.....

Then install it Yerself,...

 

[funk6294]

I just went through this last month and ended up going with the SEI. Overall I'm pretty happy with it, but the paint is an issue. It looks very good, but the adheasion is rather poor and chips very easily. If your trailer boating in fresh water, likely not an issue. If you were in salt or elleaving the boat in a slip I would have repainted.

 

[airdvr1227]

Seems like they would do something about the paint. Did you ask?

 

[funk6294]

i didn't and from everything I have read it's a common issue. Since I trailer I'm leaving it until it peels and then I will just repaint it, along with my other drive and transom assemblies to make it all pretty and matching. Maybe even some new decals.... Sorry it's like a disease.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Ayuh,...... Buy the new SEI drive right here from iboats, 'n the gaskets set, 'bout $1300.....

Then install it Yerself,...

thats what I would do.

 

[redneck joe]

Ive had two on two different boats and will do again if ever needed. 3 year unconditional warranty which they do honor from everything I've heard.

I did leave mine in the freshwater slip for a season and apparently some stray current did take some paint off. I called them and they said they would press everything into a new housing but the hassle of sending back versus a can of spraypaint, i didnt do it.