If you think you have problems with the 2.5 Gearcases you really wouldn't like a pair of the 3.0 or 3.2 litre gearcases.

Not from experience, but I've heard the same thing, hence everyone running the 4 and five blade props trying to lessen problems with the 300 xs gear case issues

Many 24's are running 300xs's and 300x's with good results. The key to keeping the 3.0L gear cases together is like said above 4 and 5 blade props, and change gear oil after every other run.

I have the lakeland expansion tanks (Modified) and the wayne taylor 4 seal drive shaft seals with good results for water intrusion. Only problem I've had was snapping a drive a shaft!!!!!

You shouldn't have any problems with the 2.5 cases' if they are setup properly. I have broke a shaft and killed one clutch dog at the begining of last season, but, otherwise they have been bullet proof. Pun intended. I do change my fluid every other time out as Don pointed out. There's not much fluid, less than a quart spinning at 8k+. You should always go over the powerhead , mid and lower unit mounting hardware before a trip out. My friends 280s' lowers kept working loose, but, he never did any preventive maintenance.

who'd you use for you lower work? if...when I go to the 300's I'll want to do em for sure.

Running 3 blades ?

Regarding the installation of these upgrades i did all the work myself. Not hard just need to be careful removing the bolts for the waterpump etc if the gearcases are old. The bolts will snap easily. When your ready let me know and I can give you some information.

thanks.