Got my first I/O boat, 86 272 Formula that needs a driveline. Found 87 Thompson Daytona 300 cruiser with twin 5.7's and alpha's, but notice it has separate forward reverse shifters and no thru hull. Looking to rebuild (upgrade engines) just wondering how much work to go to single control for each engine and convert to thru hull? Or do I try to find another Formula in any condition with drive line?

OK...first thing we have to do is get the definitions in order for the Formula. Are we discussing an engine or an out-drive...or both? If we are discussing an out-drive...what make and model is it. (i.e. Mercruiser Alpha). If we are discussing engines what make and model (i.e. Mercruiser 260)?

If the two boats have the same make and model drives they are interchangeable...same with the engines. If not...they may be compatible with a few minor modifications.

More information is needed...pictures are also very helpful.

Hello Mike,

Did you pick the boat up from West Michigan by chance?

By driveline, I am guessing you are talking the alpha outdrive, transom assembly to include steering and the complete motors.

If so, yes the 350's from another boat with the alpha outdrives could be swapped over. some parts will work, some won't but we can go through them.

Going to through hull in the 86 272 is easy, just buy the propper exhaust manifolds and risers. Line up the holes for the through tips and join them with hose.

Does your boat have the cables still in it for throttle and shifting? Get the dual control to match them, you will want seperate shifting and throttle controls for each motor.

Like sprink said, pictures.

Oh, and this should be in the formula section.

Don't mind sprink's introduction and questions, he is a mechanical engineer afterall.

Welcome to the club, please open wallet, tip upside down and your ready for the club dues....

Brian