Looking on upgrading power. Doesn't look like the XZ will last long under the higher hp stress levels. Going from 620 to 700-800. Is it an easy swap from the XZ to the SSM III-A? Or will the transom assembly be completely different? Also, whats a good price on an SSM III-A? I see them around for 4800-$5200 which sounds reasonable. If a transom assembly is needed, how much and where can one be found? Also, is there a difference in length that would need the addition of a spacer? Just looking for options. Also, what is a reasonable number for a complete XZ that was recently opened up, looked completely fresh under 50hours. Under 6hrs since opened up.

Needs a new transom assembly, a transmission, and will need a bit of dialing in to get to work because it of the props. Those props are also pretty expensive. There are used #6s for just a little more than that but the transom assemblies for them are ridiculously expensive.

Your best bet would be to go with an SCX upper with an SC lower, because time you bought that, the new helmet and gimble ring, you would be in for less than you woudl for a used III-A with a new transom assembly, glass work, moving your engine forward, and a tranny.

It would take a bunch of work to go that route. The transom would need to be glassed in and recut also.

Why are you repowering already? I thought that was a pretty fresh rebuild....

Get a BMax or an SCX.

SCX all the way....

SCX upper with SC lower seems to be the latest way to go. Why use the SMIII thats almost obsolite and getting harder to find parts for? Plus relocating the engine to fit the trans in, transom work etc. My 2cts worth.

You guys are right. I was doing some online research and the SSM III-A is what showed up at a 750hp rating. Does the SCX need a new transom assembly? How much do they run, upper and lower? What is my drive worth total?

Damn you.

Mercury discontinued that drive, but I have New upper gears, forged by the same company, with Mercury's blueprints (and permission) and will have new sets of lower gears in a few weeks. I'm planning on producing the propshafts and vertical shafts, if there is a demand.
End result, no need to discard the #3,3A,4, nor #5 SSM drives as parts will be available. FYI.

Gary Kollofski

I didn't think he had the SSMIII but was looking to convert over from a Bravo ZX? Which IMO is costly and old school at this time.

To answer the question about the gimble. The gimble assy will work but the Bell has to be changed to accomodate the larger SCX upper. So no need to relocate the engine, transom stays the same, all bolt on parts. Actually saving to go with the same set ups myself. It seems that my SC's are not going to hold up to my pounding. Pretty sure we will have to go with new from Imco since from what it looks like these are indestructable at our HP range. I figure about $10K for the upper and bell. You'll also need the lowers which are out there used for $3-4K each in good condition. I have the lowers already.

Hey Gary, Why don't yoou try to improve on the XR gears which Merc can't seem to do? I bet there would be a hugh market for a better gear set.