[luv2boat]

I hit a wing dyke in the mississippi river and now I am facing the opportunity of what drive to put back on the boat.

What ratio should I use and what prop set?

My boat is a z272 Barchetta with the 7.4L carb setup. I am guessing it makes around 300HP

[ShabahZ250]

Ouch! That sucks!!!

I'd stick with a Bravo 3, as it's what you already had. I could be wrong, but switching to a different outdrive might require physical changes, and might even need a new mount in the transom.

You can check out Sterndrive Engineering, they are an aftermarket stern drive maker, their prices tend to be a bit cheaper than OEM Mercruiser.

As far as gear ratio, first find out what your old unit had, and then go from there. I'd try and stick close to it so you retain the same performance as you were used to. Prop-wise, we've got lots of "prop-erly" educated people here (pardon the pun).... Post a thread asking for prop advice, and you'll get all kinds of help!

Let us know what you decide to do, this will help others that get into a situation like this.

[300sflyer]

Sorry to hear about your outdrive! Perhaps your insurance would help cover the cost of a new one?

Forgive my ignorance, but what is a wing dyke?

[WetWilly]

Hello luv2boat,

300sflyer is right, I would contact your insurance company first.

As far as installing a different leg, I'm with ShabahZ250, stay with the Bravo III and the same ratio unless you were having some big performance issues. If that's the case, I would contact Mercruiser for advice as there have been slight changes over the years and it could become frustrating and expensive if things don't fit.

Good luck and please keep us abreast of your situation,
WetWilly

[luv2boat]

I picked it up on Wednesday with a brand new bravo three drive! Insurance covered all but $300 of the repairs. Total cost was $7945.07

Tonite I pick it up from the stereo shop. 8 5-1/4" mids/highs and two 12" Subs. Powered by two amplifiers rated at 400 watts apiece RMS, 1600 Peak.

Heading for the lake now!!!

[ShabahZ250]

Wow, what a deal on the outdrive repair! Thank God for insurance!!

[WetWilly]

That's great news luv2boat !