I'm told that a standard bravo one drive will last no problem on a boat that weighs just 3000 lbs with 425 up to 600 hp. Assuming normal recreational use, do you agree? Thanks for your guidance.

Mine weighs a little more than that and I've had absolutly no problems. I've very carefull with the drive when planing and upon reentry.

Cord, what hp do you have?

You can go to the Mecury web site and they tell you what hp their drives are rated to. I take it your driving style will depend a lot on how long the drive lasts.

600

Your personal driving habits has got a lot to do with how long they last when you have lots of HP.
No straight arm hole shots and watch catching too much air , keep the oil changed , use a drive shower and don't be beating on it all the time and you should get a number of good years out of them

550-600 np ,but one hand on throttles

Im running close to 600 hp and I beat the hell out of the sticks when when ever I have a chance. I do have a drive shower and change the oil every 20 hours. No problums yet . But I wont be supprised when it goes.

Hot Boat,

I have a newbie question. What is a drive shower?

Thanks
GarDog

Gar,
A drive shower is a device that picks up water while you are running and showers the upper gear case to keep it and your oil cooler.
www.driveshowers.com

Cheapest and best cooling one out there