Awesome, keep us updated. Will you still use the velvet drive transmissions?

No you can't, these require a tranny that can run at full power in either direction because the drives are not counter rotating capable. I found a pair of twin disc that are what normally run in front of these drives

awesome drive setup cant wait to see it in action. definitely want to see some pics of the rig up process,

I don't understand, what do you mean "twin disc"?

Twin disc is the company that makes them. Here is a link to the manual

http://www.twindisc.com/data/en/page...ors_Manual.pdf

Design has begun on the new engine cradles that will allow extremely easy installation and removal of the engine and transmission. In addition I am using this CAD model for all the fitting of the new Kaama surface drives!

Very cool, look forward to seeing this progress, what kind of time frame are we looking at?

That's a good question!

My plan is to do 95% of the fabrication this winter in the garage outside of the boat. Come spring I can do the final fit of the engine/tranny chassis. I do have to do a new transom so that will take a good chunk of time! I am preparing myself for not being able to have the boat next summer

Nooo! We've gotta have the boat in the water this summer man! Working on the boat during the summer ain't no fun. Either way, look forward to following your progress.

Beautiful build! I'm getting motivated to work on mine. Deciding between a '79 Formula 255 and an '81 Nova II. I'm gonna restore one, play with the other and sell it when the resto is done.