Well merc is proud of their stuff . 20 grand upgrade for 100ish hp, on top of original, so 40 for a 525?
Cant any respectable engine builder make that in their sleep and to what spec you wish?

Who said 525's and 500's blue motors aren't turn key. They are actually considered one of the more reliable turn key options on the market. there are a few people on here with 1000+ hours on untouched 500's.

I would say those numbers are much fewer then say unopened black motors.

There is always an exception and they are just that, certainly not the norm and still cost more to keep up and running. Not saying they are bad motors so lets not go there but for me they are a motor I never want to deal with in ownership. If you like them then hats off bud and enjoy them.

I had 496s before, they started every single time, ran great every single time, I never missed a day boating which is the point of owning a boat, I can't say the same for some of my 525 buddies. Did I get blown off the water...yeah baby, big time. My 525 buddies got dusted also though. Not denigrating the 525 and I'd have loved to have them, but 300hr refresh sucks and so does the header issue.

Another factor to consider in the price point is the side by side vs. staggered for the 496's vs. 525's. I've looked at many of these boats and don't think I've seen a staggered 496 boat.

There was a staggered 35 Lightning for sale last fall with 496's. I believe they had CMI headers on them.

This thread cracks me up...that is all

Honestly black motors don't belong in anything 35'+.

I was talking about the 35 Donzi in the thread title. That being said, I haven't seen many staggered 496 boats at all, regardless of mfg.

It cracks you up cause everyone doesn't share your exact thoughts and ideas of what should and shouldn't be?

cracking the lid on a 38' anything with black motors is comical. however you want to roll Nate.