OK, some of you may know I purchased the brown 1980 24SE from NH. This boat was an incredible find and is 100% completely original. It pains me to take it apart, so I am collecting the pieces to convert it to a Bravo set up. I will be replacing the small block 260 with a BBC and bravo set up.

My question is how difficult is the swap from the Merc pre-alpha transom assy. to a bravo HD set up?

I am doing the swap in my own shop once all the parts are collected.....do I need to fill and redrill the transom? I know I will have to fill and relocate the exhaust, but uncertain on the transom.....

Thanks for all your help.....

Jake1250

Not unless you want to change the x-dimension. all your going to need to do is drill 2 more holes, the cutout is the same.

Sounds great.....I guess the alternative to raising the X dimension is to run a shorter lower?

Is the transom cutout the same on the earlier R drives versus the later alphas?

Yes they have the same cutout. Like phragle said just drill 2 holes, and if the x is real deep get a shorty lower.

great...thanks for the advice.....Im collecting all the pieces so I can do it all at once....Engine is being built now.....

I think the steering cable attachment/steering is slightly different. You will need a bravo power steering unit too.

Thanks. This will be a complete job motor, steering , drive tabs, etc....advice appreciated .....always been an outboard guy.

Jake1250

Go with external hydraulic steering if you plan on running fast.

Already have the Mayfair Steering ....little Xmas present to myself. Thinking about the Mayfair tabs next