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Smallblocks are 350s. 496s are still big blocks. Smallblocks are smaller and weigh less which helps with balance and room. The newer smallblocks are 320+hp where as the older big blocks were 330. Not losing anything there. Small blocks are great motors for that size boat. |
I’m only sticking my nose in here where it doesn’t belong because I’ll probably be looking at the same in a couple of years. In my research for what you’re talking about I’d find twin 496 engines. They don’t really respond to mods but I hear stories of 1000 hours+. Otherwise I’d pick the 525s, sort out the heads with quality work (needs to be done on any Merc BBC except 496?) and exhaust, clean the injectors, and party on for at least another 500+ hours. What it really comes down to though is whats available. |
Originally Posted by Crude Intentions
(Post 4634782)
Smallblocks are 350s. 496s are still big blocks. Smallblocks are smaller and weigh less which helps with balance and room. The newer smallblocks are 320+hp where as the older big blocks were 330. Not losing anything there. Small blocks are great motors for that size boat. |
Originally Posted by Baja Rooster
(Post 4634786)
I’m only sticking my nose in here where it doesn’t belong because I’ll probably be looking at the same in a couple of years. In my research for what you’re talking about I’d find twin 496 engines. They don’t really respond to mods but I hear stories of 1000 hours+. Otherwise I’d pick the 525s, sort out the heads with quality work (needs to be done on any Merc BBC except 496?) and exhaust, clean the injectors, and party on for at least another 500+ hours. What it really comes down to though is whats available. |
They have plenty for that size boat. If you found a nice twin smallblock boat you really like I'd say drive it. Don't rule them out until you run one then if you don't like it at least you'll know. May miss a great boat over something I don't think will be a big deal once you drive it. |
Shop for the latest model you can find. Not sure you are going to find a late model with a 496. Most late models were 500/525's racing motors and twins were 350/377's but were fewer made. You'll most likely find 27 Fever's with 496's.
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Originally Posted by techman
(Post 4634793)
Shop for the latest model you can find. Not sure you are going to find a late model with a 496. Most late models were 500/525's racing motors and twins were 350/377's but were fewer made. You'll most likely find 27 Fever's with 496's.
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thanks for the info. really looking for the most boat under 50k, less would be better. Just really want to stay away from big singles, and want an anchor locker, lol. Anybody knows off hand or gets a chance dimensions of their 29s would be great.. Maybe Ill post in the baja and formula threads to see what I can get there.
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It’s not a Mercury but If I had a re-power situation in a twin 29 I would hands down want 6.2 LS motors instead of the old sbc platform. The LS will have a lot more hp and torque and burn less fuel. Mercury is really missing the boat by sticking with the old sbc platform.
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