Afteer looking at the Merc site...why not the reg 496 MAGHo with the 425 hp. and no Cadillac Converter..if they're like other converters that's substantial weight.
But glad you getting the boat. you'll luv it!!

Obsolete. GM discontinued the 496 block.

I feel the new 502's represent current technology, aluminum heads, forged internals, drive by wire technology and the latest generation computer technology. The 496 is a great motor but in my mind lacks the superior internal components of the 8.2. It's basicly a de-tuned 525 EFI without the exhaust and cam specs. I'm not crazy about the converter but it's coming to the over 500 horse motors very soon. And as natural resource conserving boaters, don't we all want to do our part to help the enviroment! Steve

It's a 9/10's scale version of Wildcard! Since the design was shrunk, Pat said we didn't have to change anything on the graphics Actually, we're not quite done yet with the design. I can tell you one thing, it gonna be red! Steve

No doubt, your motors are a much better platform than the 496 is. As they get into the marketplace somebody will take those motors and make a ton of hp with them with aftermarket upgrades. Do you know what block the 8.2 has??

What speeds are we predicting? My guess is 83.

Yep! And a solid 80 all day any day!

Gonna be a sweet setup. And a fraction to insure it vice having blue motors.

This is going to be a beautiful set up. I am really starting to like the red and silver color scheme. Im two years away from ordering my new A T. Looking forward to the build process. Unless I hit the lotto expect a call. lol. Congrats and post pics as soon as available.

Are all boat engines going to have convertors now?

I think for 2010 all motors up to 500HP have convertors, and over 500HP in 2012? Steve