What's a reasonable and practical max rpm for a standard Bravo 1 with a 1.5 gear ratio if I'm looking for some long life and durability with this outdrive? I'm looking at a '96 Scarab 22 that has the Bravo 1 and a 454. The block froze so the engine is trash. I've got a marinized 400 sbc I built up to go into a jet boat that I can drop in, but am wondering if I need to change cams to better fit this outdrive. Engine should produce about 500 ft-lbs at 4300 rpm, and 490-500 Hp at about 5500 rpm. I don't have any experience with the Bravo 1, and am wondering how fast you can spin it w/o risking problems. Thoughts?

The B1 will turn 5500 rpm with no problem.

I have spun B1 and B1 with XR gears to 6300rpm. If it is setup right, no problem..

Dick

What they said.

I have a 24 foot baja with a 550 stroker turning 6000 rpm and we did dyno at 6600 rpm at 600 hp yes i know i'm pushing it but it goes 80mph live on the edge lol

I've always been told that 6000 was the practical max... I've spun mine to 6800 ONCE, and on another to 6600 ONCE... Both ended in failure, but I can't necessarily say it was the rpm rather than the excessive power.