Only oddball was the 525SC based on a 454.

So going with 502 would be easier, everything should line up, and I won't have to worry about exhaust holes in the transom and can reuse the offshore engine mounts

I think you could reuse the offshore mounts either way, and the misalignment of exhaust holes is probably workable unless you're running full through-hull tailpipes (no rubber hoses connecting to tips). But yes the 502 will be exactly the same.

thanks for the info guys, I do like the 496s but I would have to think the 502 is a better engine anyways, no?

ya forgot about that stepchild