Beta 50-good choice for a 365?

[jpendoley]

A I have a Westerbeke 40 now-was planning on removing and resealing-runs well but leaks a lot of oil. Just saw a Beta 50 attractively priced-does anyone have one and if so, how do you like it? What are the vdrive and transmission issues involved in going from a velvet drive/Walter config on a Westerbeke 40 to a Beta 50? Thanks!
Jim

[Jim S]

three questions come to mind immediately:
1. What direction will the engine turn the propeller?  You may need to replace the propeller.
2. Will the horsepower overpower the existing v-drive?
3. If the engine has a transmission, is the ratio 1:1 like the original transmissions?  If it does not have a transmission, will your existing transmission fit on the Beta?

Good luck, I have heard positive things about the Beta

If I remember, your v-drive was replaced in 2008-2009 by the previous owner.