Hey friends. I am new to the board and not permitted to post pictures? ... If you're able to look at my albums I was able to upload pictures of the drive in question.

I have a 1988 Sea Ray Pachanga 22 -- Big Block in front of what I was told is an Alpha One Gen 1 drive. If I'm not mistaken, the old V1 drive has a straight vertical fin on the lower, where the V2 has some angles to it .. this is the vertical edge that faces the prop. My drive lower has a curve to it .... somewhat like a "C" shape. Not sure if I am giving a good description here but if anyone could offer some guidance or pictures I would greatly appreciate it.

Are you sure it's not just a chunk broken off the skeg? A1 Gen 1 was the straight skeg up until 1990 ( Btm pic), then in 1991, Mercruiser introduced the Gen 2 Alpha with the angled skeg (top pic)

FYI, you need 10 posts to attach pics..

the serial number stamped into the upper will help you identify as well

https://www.mercruiserparts.com/1-and-alpha-drives

Thanks for replying ...

no serial numbers ... drive appears to have been repainted at some point. No markings or decals whatsoever.

The skeg is not straight at all ... both the top and bottom part of the skeg extend out from the prop hub on an angle ... does not look like the Gen 2 pic posted though

If you click on my public profile you should be able to see the album with the actual pictures of the drive

Inotropic's Outdrive...

you should think along the lines of B1 drive with an incomplete skeg attached (ground off):

Yep that’s a bravo 1, alphas don’t have a removable back cap

OP you will be much happier having a B1 on your Pachanga

A1 and Big Blocks are not a wallet friendly combo long term unless you seriously baby it all the time

Thanks! This is great news ...

Are there any structural differences between the Alpha transom/bell housing vs. the Bravo?

I’m speculating the original owner replaced the Alpha drive with this Bravo. I’m wondering if there will be any technical snags when it comes time to perform maintenance or repairs.

I'm speculating the prior owner wasn't aware of what he had.
I believe 88 was first year for Bravo, so if it is a original big block boat more than likely had the Bravo.
In addition to the transom assemblies being different, the raw water pump is integral in an Alpha, where as it's belt driven off the engine on the Bravos.
So if he did convert he would of had to tend to that also.