I have a alpha 1 that I am trying to hold together with a built sbc (see previous post on dialing-in) and have heard that going from a 1:5 to a 1:3 ratio will actually put more strain on the drive or vice-versa if I go from a 1:3 to a 1:5. What is everyones thought on this BESIDES the fact going with a bravo would be better......

"Bad-Habit"
86 F3LS

i have heard the opposite.

My boat has/had (converting to bravo) an alpha with 1.32:1 gears and a 454. From everythign i have bneen ableto find out the BBC 1.50 combination is not very durable. Where as my drive has about 350-400 hours on it. I am converting because i added a blower and a blown 454 will definatly pop an alpha.

my alpha is for sale check the classifieds.

Nothing is ever simple!

Torque is inversely proportional to rpm's. The faster you spin the drive ie 1.3:1 as opposed to 1.5:1 the less stress on the gears.
IF the bearing speeds are within design and gear tooth loading doesn't get excessive because of the physical size of the gears. Whether that happens in the outdrive world i don't know.

Ted

What helped keep my alpha togeather was not shifting with the engine running. Plus I sure got a lot of looks starting in gear just like the V- DRIVE guys.

Reverend.
1.3 times the torque vs 1.5 times the torque.
1.5 better for acceleration but breaks.
not much else.
pat W

1.5 will be faster in your application and the 1.3 should handle torque better. The best advice is to add a remote oil resavoir and some additional cooling(shower). Good Luck The Ironman.