If I buy a boat with an alpha drive (late model) can I swap a bravo. I was told I could by someone a long time ago but I am not sure. I know its not the same as the HP transom assembly but what about the stock unit? THanks Greg

No.

You can if you swap the transom assembly also. All you need to do is drill 2 new holes in the transom.

Jon

Yes you can. You need every piece from the flywheel back from the engine. You will have to drill 2 holes in the transome, and pull the engine to get the flywheel, bell housing and inter trans assy. on. Not very hard pretty straight forward. Just make sure your drive shart spines are lined up correctly to the engine coupler. Your old props will work.

Russ

I thought he was asking if a Bravo would bolt up to an Alpha transom assembly.

You can but need all associated Bravo stuff. Inner and outer transom brackets, gimball and bellhousing, etc.. Like mentioned 2 added holes are needed over the Alpha setup and the motor needs pulled to change a few things. Also need a Bravo coupler.

SeaWater pump,brkt.'s etc. also.

I thought the transom assembly was the same after like 2000 or so. I did an 89 alpha to 1999 bravo deal once, drilled the holes etc. I was under the impression that the newer alphas used bravo assemblies.

I have done it and as others said you need to scrounge up a few parts. I did not change the bellhousing or the coupler but did have to modify the input shaft a bit. You will need a complete out drive, gimbal housing and all, a sea water pump and bracket, you will also need to modify the shift bracket or replace it.
Its easy to R and R the engine but the alignment is a real PTA.
If I was to do it again I would have done the coupler and the bellhousing.
If you are able to DIY the swap is well worth it. Every piece of the Bravo is much stronger than the Alpha. The sea water pump is easier to rebuild. You get to get rid of the stupid shift interrupter.
If you are paying to have the job done you had better really love your boat.
If you get to shopping for parts check out www.fnamarine.com They are in the LOTO area and are doing a lot of the salvage from the ice storm. They may end up with some good stuff.

I did the conversion on a 87 Baja 240. My Alpha coupler was a lot smaller and not as strong as the bravos coupler. Not sure about the other years.