Bravo 1 rebuild???
 

I'm currently getting ready to rebuild the engine in my 4200lb Powerquest. I'll be going up from the stock 330hp 454 to ~475hp 496. The lower unit was rebuilt two seasons ago, but from what I can tell, the upper gearbox is completely original (~1000hrs in 13yrs).

I don't plan to abuse the drive with the new engine, should I have it rebuilt? It works great right now, and part of me figures I'm better off running it till it breaks, but I've also got the feeling it may last a lot longer with the new power if it's fresh.

Any thoughts? Thanks in advance.

Re: Bravo 1 rebuild???
 

Depends how big a deal it is if it breaks unexpectedly.

Mine broke in the Houston ship channel and it could have gotten ugly with all the big commercial traffic.

No guarantee a rebuilt will last longer than your old one though.

I would run it till it breaks and plan on getting a new one or at least a new upper down the road. If you buy a new or reconditioned you could have it on standby.