Stern Drive Model ? 1976 Merc 888 and maximum HP and torque capacity

[pmddouglas]

I believe I have a Stern Drive Late Model 1 based on Chart in Clymer manual. Engine sn # is 4490968. Is this considered a Pre Alpha? A model 1 R? And whatever it is, what should be the maximum horsepower and torque applied to it out of curiousity. Because it appears that the Merc 225TR, and 233's used same drives, but the Merc 255 used a Model II-TR.<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />Paul

 

[JasonB]

Re: Stern Drive Model ? 1976 Merc 888 and maximum HP and torque capacity

You have a Pre Alpha 1R I believe (I have the same drive). The 225 was a 302/4bbl that as far as I can find, was used only as a straight inboard. The 188 was a 302 2bbl, adn the 233 was a 351 2bbl. I runa 302 making about 220-225. I have been told the drive is good to about 275hp, as long as you don't kill it with torque.

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: Stern Drive Model ? 1976 Merc 888 and maximum HP and torque capacity

I pushed about 300hp with my 351W. Never had a problem.