Well after I trashed a trans at the Rendezvous I pulled the engines and found some rot in the center of the transom, so down the rabbit hole I go. Since I will be replacing the whole thing I will also be replacing the drives, (TRS). I found some nos 3a’s but being they are also obsolete I am trying to decide if Konrad would be a better choice. Anyone have experience with both?

Sorry to hear that brotha. Those 3A’s are stout. Baby 6’s. Loved ours. Parts can be scarce to find though but and the direct bolt up of the Konrad sure is appealing. Tough call. Think I’d go with the 3As though personally. Just because I of my personal experience.

Yep, I have been kind of leaning that way. Since I have to replace the transom anyway being a direct bolt up really does not matter. I just wish everything with a trans had not been discontinued, really the only thing using a trans these days is the 6's and 8's.

yeah. If you can get NOS 3A’s I’d do that. I mean, in reality they’re highly unlikely to break if you’re running under 800hp through them. I wasn’t exactly easy on mine and NEVER had an issue. They shafts were pitted from water sitting in the prop hub which caused the shaft seals to leak
at times. I figured I’d replace the shafts when they let go. They never did. If you buy the drives install and run them and then just pick up random
parts when you come across them.

If I remember correctly, there is a guy here on OSO with the screen name RMPRAM that was making parts for SSM drives? I could be wrong, but I believe I used to see him post parts for sale in OSO marketplace.

Hit this guy up about sourcing gear sets and parts for the 3a’s, he seemed to be better situated for old parts than anyone I talked to awhile back. You’ll get a good indication of availability at least.

Is there a reason that no one talks about the IMCO SCXT drive? It is for transmission setups and should be plenty stout.

Call Gary Kollofski 612-247-7081 this is who still makes parts for SSM 3, 4s and 5s

Dan,

correct me if I’m wrong but I don’t think Gary makes the parts anymore. He may have some stock left but when I contacted him for #5 uppers he had none and was not going to make any.

OP - I’d go 3s over Konrad. I’d go 6s if you’re going to keep the boat. SSM 3-5 parts are hard to find, but they are good drives.

I have very good luck with my konrads held up well and I do like the ability to call and order any part you need and have it shipped that day. 3as are great drives but hunting parts is tough.