merc prop shaft

[TB21]

Im curious as to how many of you guys have switched to the new big diameter prop shaft , Im in the process of buying a new sportmaster for my allison bass boat and the dealers act like im stupid for wanting the big prop shaft replaced with the small one....but i've got 6 different props that i dont want to relace , and i've never had a prop shaft problem , its always the internals that have failed in my so called good 200 gear cases....so whos running what? thanks TB

[sosmerc]

Sure can't blame you for wanting to keep your current prop collection. Obviously the propshaft change along with other gearcase changes such as the dual bearings under the pump base, etc are to increase the durability of the unit and I'm sure they are stronger than they used to be. However, I feel if you are careful and try not to put undo stress on your unit such as jumping waves or shifting before the rpm's come down or running with low oil or contaminated oil, you can get good service out of the older unit. I even change my gear oil before every outing just to be on the safe side...or to try and catch a problem before it wipes out the case. This may seem extreme, but I don't get out in my boat all that often and I sure can't afford to be changing lower units or rebuilding things at today's prices.