CVX 18 sterndrive replacement

[JThomas36]

Looking for a replacement solution for my pre Alpha sterndrive on my '80 cvx 18 with merc 260. I have the entire outdrive upper and lower stripped out and need some advice on next steps.   I will start by saying the damage to the original is contained in the lower unit.   Forward gear lost about 3 1/2 teeth that got ground up and did some scaring in the lower.    My first notion was to rebuild the existing upper and lower completely.   While researching I found that an Alpha one Gen one would likely be a better replacement than the original 260 unit.  My questions for the group would be, are the SEI units worth looking into ?  Price looks good but the mixed reviews are alarming.  Is my original lower unit worth rebuilding or having repaired ?  It has no cracks, just some scaring in the internal cavity.   
  Is my best investment a new Alpha 1 Gen 1 ?  Bite the $3,5000 bullet and forget about for another 40 years.  Ha Ha ...   I am looking for some smart advice and will state that I am fully capable of rebuilding the entire unit ( I have all the tools) I just don't know if it's worth it for a Pre Alpha unit. Thanks in Advance for any advice.   Happy Holidays everyone! 

[Plugcheck]

Several folks on here have used the SEI legs with fair success, their warranty is impressive IMHO.    You stated you have all the tools, why not consider building your own.     Personally doing my own work gives me a certain peace of mind that is only beat by new equipment.    The pre alpha/mr drives can last for years, I've had fair luck with them.    Good used parts are available for decent price.   Certainly a host of options all bounded by what you would like to spend

[carlsoncvx18]

Been running a sei on my cvx18 for 10+ yrs. Running somewhere around 340hp  Would by one again. They are a exact copy of the mercruiser.  From what I understand the patent expired and they copied it. The bearings are just standard bearings that can be purchased everywhere. One thing that I would recommend is a drive shower.

[Jason]

I?ve got about 10 years on my SEI as well. 260hp on a cv23. No issues at all.

[JThomas36]

Thank you all. Been nothing but good advice here..   I will go the SEI route with the Shower. Can't beat the price.   Any recommendations on stainless prop for the new outdrive on the CVX 18 ? Boat the boat with a 23 P and previous owner stated, Might want to get a new prop.  I have read all the great advice on here but just wondering what works best with your 260 cvx

[carlsoncvx18]

Running a LaserII 23 pitch.

[Hyperacme]

^

[Plugcheck]

You didn't mention why the PO suggested a new prop?   Both aluminum and SS props can be repaired and "tweaked".    Not certain changing from a MR/pre alpha to a SEI would have an effect on prop selection, maybe?  Prop selection is somewhat like choosing what tires on vehicles, it depends on the primary use.   Some folks carry a second prop for skiing/watersports to get on plane quickly, another for top end, maybe an emergency spare.    I doubt you would be unhappy with the L2 23p prop previously suggested