I picked up the boat (factory 454 with alpha drive) from the original owner and blew a nice hole out of the side of the lower unit. I suppose the next step is to separate the lower unit from the upper to see if the upper is salvageable. If I can get away with only replacing the lower, do you guys think I can use this SEI unit? SE106, LOWER (Replaces Mercruiser Alpha One) | sterndrive.cc

If the upper is shot as well, how would the 1.47 work for me? I understand the factory is 1.33. Is that correct?
I'm looking at this if the upper is blown: SE106 1.47 Complete (Replaces Mercruiser's Alpha One) | sterndrive.cc

Also, I'm currently using a Mirage Plus 21P prop. Any suggestions to get me up on plane faster? The boat is extremely stern heavy and if there are more than 3 people on the boat it's very tough to get up.

Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks a ton, fellas!
Have a wonderful day,
Anthony

1st off, I have heard good things on the SE drives. Have had a friend use one on a 222 even. Stingers have always had issues being stern heavy and hard to plane. Between TomZ and I, we have tried several different props on the 222. Only problem is they were all 3 blade props. I have had much success going to a 4 blade as far as getting on plane faster, but that is with my Cig. I would try to borrow a 22 pitch 4 blade to try. If you stick with a 3 blade, I would try a 23 pitch Mirage.

another thing to try is to try putting 2 40-50lb sandbags in the bow anchor compartment. It should help planning a lot.

can you post some pics and more info. Is it a 330 or a 365 Mag? Does it have trim tabs?

Thanks so much for the reply!

I'll definitely hunt down a 22 pitch 4 blade and put some sandbags in the bow anchor compartment. Great ideas!

I have the 330 mag and she does have trim tabs as well.

I would say she's a pretty rare bird. I can't imagine they made a lot of boats with the 454 & "P" Decor: (White/White cockpit/Lt. Bahamas and Dk. Bahamas accents)

Here are some photos:

My wife is proficient at tying off!

Does anyone else have thoughts?

Anyone????

On the props, or the SEI drive? You in NJ or Fla.? Have not seen that setup/color combo on the 222 before.

Both!

The boat is in NJ at the moment. It's 100% original. I haven't seen the setup/color anywhere else either.

Put a bravo on it

I would love to if my wallet would allow it! haha

UPDATE: Had the drive replaced with the SEI 1.47 and hopefully I'll have the opportunity to put her in the water this weekend.