I'm running 750hp on a 36' Spectre cat and am wondering about the # 5 drive. Do make them new still? I thought they be lighter than the # 6 and still will run on the surface. Your thoughts.

There isn't as much total weight difference as some think between a boat setup with 6's vs 5's after adding the weight of the steering hardware. It's even closer after you add the weight of a standoff box to get the prop placement similar to the 6. Also, the drysump has less hp loss than a 5. Not knocking the 5, but it's days are numbered Jay (Spectre) could tell you what differences he has seen in his applications. Some boats may carry the extra weight better than others.

Thanks for the info. I may just go with XR's and speedmaster lowers.

Check these out for an alternative to 6's for the power. www.weismann.net

what happened to the arnesons

I would not go with bravos, 750hp and a cat. You'll be changing drives like light bulbs. Heck, even people with HP500's are breaking shafts on a cat.

Running as high as they usually are on a cat, most of that drag is probably the skeg. There is a major difference in skeg area between the 2. You could cut back the skeg a little, as long as it's not a race boat (Supercat had/has a rule on skeg dimensions for the 6, not sure about the other classes).
I wonder how they get the tiebar high enough on the Weismann drive? That clevis doesn't look high enough to me. A hydraulic link tiebar maybe?

i have the same problem.... same hp's and only have bravos.
will need a #5 soon .never considered #6 cause the cost is high.
do you have any idea about the rebuilt prices of #5 drives

Arneson industries is still around.. they make a replacement drive that retro fits onto a bravo along with all the other sizes.

I would also consider the resale value and the complete setup price difference after you add steering to the 5 (not sure if any steering parts are included with the arnesons). There are good arguments for all of the above combinations. Good luck in your choice.