Walter V driver Gear Ratio question

[Hoplite808]

On my 3327 Convertible it is now powered with a pair of Perkins T6.354 engines. I suspect it was originally powered with a pair of Crusader 270’s. The transmission is a Borg Warner Velvet drive and the V drives are Walter RV-26’s with a 2.05:1 gear ratio. I suspect this gear ratio was correct for the Crusaders with lower torque and higher RPM’s but something closer to 1:1 gear ratio would be better for the Perkins since they have higher torque and lower RPM’s. Since I’m looking at replacing the V drives soon due to corrosion in the water jackets I thought this would be the ideal time to change the gearing if appropriate. Does anyone know if a 1:1 ratio v drive would be more appropriate for my setup or should I stick with the 2.05:1 ratio instead?

[RichS]

Hi Hoplite...wish you lived closer! I have a 1994 320 Voyager with the same transmissions and the same Walter V-Drives in it. Unfortunately, the port side Walter needs to be replaced. I've been looking for one that I could just swap out, but am having no luck finding one at all. Wish I could buy yours but shipping them from Honolulu to KY would cost as much as the V Drive I suspect! Best of luck finding the right match for your 3327! Safe boating!