I am rebuilding a 26' Wellcraft Spyder. I purchased it with no power or drives.
It was built with 260s and Alphas.
I will be using MPI 350 Mags (300hp) and Alphas for now. I will upgrade to Bravo drives later.
Anyone have an idea on what gear ratio I will need?

Also, any gains by raising the X dimension or adding boxes?

Thanks

The only way to raise the X is reglass the transom and if you're gonna do that, the switch to Bravos. I don't think they make any boxes for Alphas either.

I would think something in the 1.5 ratio range....1.48's???????

I may be rebuilding the transom anyway, there is a little rot around the drive cutouts, not sure yet how far it goes...
as for the cutouts they are the same as Bravos which are not in my budget yet. (I have the Alpha stuff laying around...)

I would assume Bravo boxes would work with Alphas since the cutout is the same and they use the same u-joints etc...
I am leaning towards the box idea since the X can be adjusted if needed.
I know boxes work on some ther boats.

I guess the question is more hull style specific.
Does anyone have experience with higher Xs or boxes on this style of hull?

Another question, how fast have you seen these hulls run?
How stable are they?
My future plan is BBCs, Bravos and big tabs...

Thanks,
Derek

There was one on Lk. St. Clair a few years back with twin 450 hp or so and Alpha's. It would go about 80 but it was really squirelly. It would launch and then come down 6 ft over to the side probably from having both props turn the same way. Also, they have a tendency to bow steer. If you really want to go fast, a different hull would be a good idea. The old Scarab Panthers were a fine handling hull and they are cheap now. Good luck.