So who in Fla. builds a sound marine engine @ about 550-600HP without going the Merc. way $$$$$. Naturally aspirated.

I would check out Cobra Power. I was at there shop this weekend and although I do not have one of their engines everything was top notch and I think they offer a 650hp naturally aspirated. They are in Miami.

Tommy at www.chiefengines.com He builds some real nice motors.

go with a slightly used merc 525, they can be bought complete in the 17k range, they produce 550-560hp fuel injected . builders will be about that with exhaust to build new, you will be able to resale it with the merc blue

Talk with Ron Potter ( Potter Performance Engines ) he starts with a 550 N/A.

Innovation Marine / Sarasota

Express Marine Engines/Bruce Baker Deland

http://eriemonster.com/marineexpressengines/

http://www.expressenginesusa.com/

I'm not to terribly far away.
Eddie

Check the classifieds here on OSO under engines for the offer for one of our Raylar H0600-625HP engines. We'll crate it up and have it to you in just a few days. Someone is going to get a smok'in good deal on this tricked out one!

Best Regards,
Ray @ Raylar