Help! Need a new trans for a 4-108

[LWinters]

So I was dumb enough to buy a boat without an engine inspection and now I am paying for it. The oil cooler on the old Paragon 3:1 hydraulic has probably been bad for several years according to the shop. When they opened the gear up after it failed on me it was more mush and sediment that gears. Saltwater has been working on the cast iron for a long time leaving nothing left to rebuild.

I am now in the market for a new transmission and was looking for some advice. Is there a common gear used on the 4-108? Previous trans was a 3:1 in line reduction. Thoughts on used vs. rebuilt?

Any input as to what I should watch out for as I start shopping would be helpful. Hurricane season is coming on and I'd prefer to have a sailboat with a working auxiliary if possible.

[camaraderie]

LW...suggest you call and talk to these guys. They are great and know Perkins inside and out and will recommend what is best for you. They sell new and rebuilt and still believe in customer service. No connection...just years of great service.
TAD for perkins engines

[pigslo]

My 4108 has a Borg Warner Velvet Drive but these engines had all the major transmission companys behind them. For Paragon try MarineEngine.com
Pigslo

[haffiman37]

Theese engines have been equipped with the most of transmissions from hydraulic (BW/velvet drive) to the simple mechanic like Hurth. What type to choose depends a bit of propeller You are using fixed wing or folding/auto adj.
If You use a fixed wing a transmission that allows the prop-shaft to free-wheel is the best, but even the most expensive. Using fold/auto You may go for a simple mechanic that You will have to 'lock' in reverse when sailing. (lubrication reason).

[donradclife]

My 4108 has a 2.74 Hurth, which has worked well over the years--no oil cooler, and it doesn't need one. The previous owner had to have the seals replaced in the early 90's, and I had it taken apart and checked in Australia in 1997.

[LWinters]

I wound up looking at every major gear maker out there and couldn't find one that would fit without making major changes to the engine configuration. I would have had to go with redoing the stringers to lower the engine or relocating the refridgeration to raise the engine. Eventually got ahold of some really good shop for Paragon gears and they are building me a drop in unit. More expensive than a new gear by itself, but a lot cheaper then redoing the motor mounts. Thanks for the feedback. If anyone else needs Paragon work done contact Jim at Federal Marine outside Chicago, IL.