New engine or change outdrive?

[eb0248]

I obtained an '07 Gen 2 outdrive, 17 hours on it, with everything from the inner transom mount back for next to nothing, has a 1:62 ratio. I have an old merc 260 that could be refurbished, which should probably have a drive with 1:47 or 50. The outdrive came from off of a 305, he said he had no problems. A mechanic down here (MS) old me the only thing it would do is give me a better hole shot, other folks online are saying to get a 4.3 like the drive should have (a viable option), or change the gears in the outdrive. The more I ask, the more my head spins. Any help?

[Tech Support]

I would go with the 260 and run the 1.62 ratio. The gears don't hold up as well as a 1.47 but Mercruiser is putting that ratio with some of the newer 5.7's so It should last awhile.

Tech Support