What's peoples thoughts about putting 550ish small block HP thru a standard bravo 1, single engine small boat weighs 2800lbs easy on the throttle and easy on reentry. Also, newer style swept back upper will a newer X or XR bolt right up or gimbal need changed? Can X or XR upper gears be put in a standard Bravo upper case, and or what can been done to strengthen the upper, not so worried about the lower it's an Imco. Thanks

I will let the guys who know a lot about this answer your question, but I do have a real nice Bravo XR for sale if you feel like that is way you want to go.

I have an X drive with 20 hours, that is collecting dust the last two years.

I really don't think you will have a problem with a 550hp SBC and Bravo in a light boat. Go easy out of the hole and be quick on the sticks if you come out of the water. Bravo's don't like more than 6000rpms and you are probably close to that to make 550hp out of a SBC.

Griff, I plan on only turning engine to 5500 getting the HP from a Whipple.

A properly setup B1 will handle it. I know of others with much more power and heavier boats holding up..

Dick

Condition?
Cost?
PM me if you want to sell. A buddy broke one this weekend.

Dick, what is your definition of properly set-up?? It's an 06' sweptback style B1, lower is an Imco -2 most concerned about the upper not the lower.
Steve

The OW drives (swept backs) use the new method of shimming the upper pinion gear. If the factory did it correctly, then your drive should be setup properly. Gear lash and stack height is the concern.
The next weak point is the tower. I put a steel tower in the B1, you already have the X gears. For your application, I would run it! Light boat minimal horsepower.. Go for it!
I have friends that run 800-900hp (Procharged) through those gears without problems.

Dick

Ditto, & I know of others with more power holding up fine as well..

Just don't abuse it.. Jamie / Lakeside