496 to 525 swap in 28 heat?

bullittcustoms · 09-10-2009, 09:47 AM

Hey Guys, I'm pretty new to the forum and Nordic boats. I have had my 2006 28 Heat open bow for about 6-8 weeks and LOVE it. I have had several baja's and lots of other custom boats and this one is no comparison. My boat came with a 496ho and I want to go faster. I have a friend who has a stock 525 with everything there that I can buy for the money. Will this motor just drop in, bolt up, and go??
Is the room there? It looks pretty close to the back seat already. I really want a 600sci, but cant find one without giving up my first born. any help would be appreciated.

Thanks, Derek

Steve Zuckerman · 09-10-2009, 10:06 AM

Welcome to the Nordic forum Derek.
I know several people who have done the swap from "black" motor to "blue". You may need some help along the way from a qualified Merc technician or dealer, but it's a pretty straight forward swap. Both motors have similar space requirements, so that's not an issue. The 525 has an offshore, HP, heavy duty cradle (front) mount, so you may have to fab some new mounting brackets. The Nordic factory should have exactly what you need.
One thing to consider is your boat probably doesn't have hydraulic steering, and you should have that for safety and contol with the additional speed you'll have with the 525. Also, your drive may need some upgrading to live with the additional torque generated. If it's a new Bravo X (with some XR parts) drive, you may be OK as is. You also will probably need a new set of exhaust tails to tie the 525 headers into the stock 496 exhaust outlets. The factory or your dealer should know the dimensions as they are a "standard" setup. You can also source them through Teague.
Glad you like your boat, and we agree, bang for the buck, they are hard to beat.
Regards,
Steve

CB-BLR · 09-10-2009, 11:46 AM

Derek,

Welcome to the Nordic family.

I agree with Steve.. this is a pretty straight forward swap.

What part of the country do you live in?

Chris

bullittcustoms · 09-10-2009, 06:50 PM

Thanks for the help guys. I Live in Central Oklahoma. Not many Nordics around here. Actually, I have only seen one other one in person ever. I am very happy with the boat all around and my wife and kids love it. That says alot, because my wife has hated just about every boat I have ever had. (I always "Needed" a closed Bow)
The swap is gonna happen pretty soon, I'll post pics as we go along. Also, I am looking for an XR drive to go along with it, if anyone knows where to find one.

bullittcustoms · 09-10-2009, 06:52 PM

What kinda speed increase are we looking at? I can make the boat run 68 right now with 2 people and NO fuel. That's it!! Is that right for a 496 in a 28??

Indy · 09-10-2009, 07:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bullittcustoms

What kinda speed increase are we looking at? I can make the boat run 68 right now with 2 people and NO fuel. That's it!! Is that right for a 496 in a 28??

That's 1 mph faster than what I got. I ran with the tide, against the tide, stock prop, labbed prop, warm weather, cool weather, dead calm, light chop. You name it I did it...67 once.

johnlomant · 09-10-2009, 08:50 PM

I did this swap but with a 496 to 500 efi. It was worth it. Call me if you need help there are a few key things you will have to modify.
John
678 206 9099

bullittcustoms · 09-10-2009, 11:39 PM

Actually, I ran 67.3 on GPS and it was with the wind against my back in choppy water. I have trouble with math. You round up .3, Right?? LOL I'm gonna call nordic tomm. and check that front cradle. I'm pumped on the install!! I appreciate you guys imput. hope it works out.

John, What do I need to modify?

Derek

CB-BLR · 09-11-2009, 01:09 AM

Derek,

It will all work out. The boat really starts comming into its own when you add power.

Chris

bullittcustoms · 09-11-2009, 09:04 AM

What about a 600 sci. Will that just bolt in as well? I would assume that there will be space issues with that on??

Derek