Had a mechanic at Olympic Boat install my lower unit-1991 Alpha one-he said they are just as good as factory Mercruiser-at 1/3 the price. He said the finish {paint} could be better. As far as reliabilty goes I have no idea because the boat-a 19 foot, 1991 Bluewater cutty cabin has not seen the water. I am putting a new floor in. For now it is a trailer queen.