I'm looking at a 1994 Wellcraft 29' Scarab with a Volvo drive unit (single big block). How do they compare to the Mercruisers? Are they something to avoid?

I appreciate the help. Shopping for my first "big" boat right now and doing my homework.

Thanks!

Let me rephrase that... does anyone have a 502 Volvo/Penta engine/drive system with dual props in their boat? If so, how do you like the performance and reliability?

Ive heard they are quite strong drives. From what I recall they have few of the issues that plague bravo 1's. The duo-prop is a source of drag on the water at speed though. Might want to do a search for the combo on OSO and see what turns up. Somebody else will chime in soon.

I have a 260 Powerquest Legend e/w 496 Mag and a Volvo DPX drive--to date I have not had any problems with the drive. The boat has 150 hours on it and top speed is around 60mph.

Does the dual prop set-up give better acceleration out of the hole?

Yes. And the durability of the Volvo is much better than a Bravo IMO.

Yes, but you will loose some top end to drag i think. That is why a lot of ski boats and bigger cabin cruisers have them....gets things moving along.

This is gonna sound dumb but I'm gonna ask it anyway, especially since I haven't seen a V-P duo prop up close.
Do you have the option of removing one prop? I'm assuming not.

Volvo says no. Also they do not suggest "mixing" prop sizes. Must be run as a set.

There was actually some tests done with mixing props. Performance was increased quite a bit but the drive basically ate itself in the process. The DPX is a fantastic drive and is very durable. i would trade the Bravos of my Scarab in a heartbeat for a pair of DPX's. For a single screw boat its the only way to go. We have been racing them (hard) for several years now and i have yet to see one blow. i would not shy away from a boat with that drive on it thats for sure