496 vs 502 upgradeability
#1
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496 vs 502 upgradeability
Hi, I'm looking at several nice boats but all have stock power and would I like to know which motor is a better candidate for upgrades (nothing crazy in order to retain reliability and avoiding excessive maintenance) the 496/496HO or the 502MPI? Thanks for any info!
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Michael
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The upgrades for the 496HO are realtively limited at this point in time.
There are numerous ways to upgrade the 502mpi's and many companies with performance upgrade packages.
There are numerous ways to upgrade the 502mpi's and many companies with performance upgrade packages.
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Join Date: Jan 2004
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496 MAG,HO or 502MPI??
Both motors are good candidates for engine performance upgrades. I am obviously partial to 496's because we make the aftermarket kits, engine upgrades and parts and they have a better electronics control, fuel system, fresh water cooling standard and we have a nice kit to take a stocker to 525HP without exhaust and ecm upgrades. Don't think you can do that with a 502MPI as easily becuase cylinder head needs, intake, fuel system and ECM upgrades needed and you still won't have the advantages of closed cooling. As for the 496 going away, talk of possible 2009, but nothing definite on a motor that already has about 46,000 marine units in use today!! and the 502 went away back in 2000 and yet the aftermarket has filled the void nicely. Just be careful and realistic to carefully research resale values, costs and availability of upgrades (real marine) and your access to a real marine engine specialist who can help you through the upgrade process, especialy if you plan to go into the motor!!
What ever your choice, establish a realistic BUDGET!, find a nice boat, be safe and have fun!!
Regards,
Ray @ Raylar
What ever your choice, establish a realistic BUDGET!, find a nice boat, be safe and have fun!!
Regards,
Ray @ Raylar
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Michael
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