Alpha 1 Gen 2 versus DuoProp/Bravo III

[oGaryo]

The search for a new boat has begun in earnest and have looked at a few boats in brokers yards and viewed a Doral 250 SE... most boats I've seen either have the Volvo Duo Prop or Bravo 3 setup but there's one I'm interested in that has a bog standard Alpha 1 Gen 2 outfit... I'm at the early learning stages of understanding the differences in these setups but that understanding is that the duoprop or bravo 3 is better for cruising, correct?

Should I stay clear of the Alpha 1 Gen 2 for a boat of this size (Rinker 242 fitted with 5L MPI) if I predominently want to use it to pootle along at 20 - 25kts? Or will I be ok so long I select an appropriately sized & pitched prop?

Haven't a scooby doo what's blade is currently fitted but will be looking in to that before viewing.

thanks Gary

 

[rob2]

Sounds like a dedicated mobo question - you'll probably get more esponse on that forum. I think a duo-prop would cost roughly what I paid for my boat!

Hope to see you out there soon!

Rob.

 

[eb0248]

Which Outdrive?

Gary,

I'm going through the same problems you are, with the same morass of answers that don't really answer my question. I bought a 1989 Bayliner 2556 Command bridge, and the original Alpha 1 outdrive, a 454 merc in front of it, reportedly recently overhauled (the compression is great, no leaks, so I believe the guy). I bought the boat to get the family to the barrier islands here in Mississippi, I'm not looking for a go-fast set up or a huge hole shot; I take it you're in the same boat (bad pun). Here's what I've gleaned over the past few months: Alpha 1 - great, dependable, run a little hotter than Bravos, can easily handle up to 300hp, no sweat. I was looking at the Bravo 3 only because I have a single screw, handling/dock manuvering is said to be better, but I'm not sure $3000+ is just cause for "better". Anyway, I think an Alpha should be fine, and not preclude any purchase based on the outdrive.

Good Luck,

Ed