How many hours would be expected life (average) out of this engine.Also for gimble bearing and Drive? Thanks

I had 650hrs on mine when I decided to make a 496 out of it. Everything looked very good inside...I was a amazed. I have always used Mobil 1 15-50 at 30 to 50 hr change intervals. The gimble bearing was replace when I built the engine and it was original too. Still on original Bravo 1 drive but I have my fingers crossed that it continues to last. I believe that routine oil changes and maintenance will buy you many hours of service.

500-1000hrs depending upon use and maintenance...
My 502 ran 500hours before loosing oil pressure. Did rings, bearings, valve job, and oil pump last year. She's running like new...

Come on, pull the trigger. We need another 24' Super in the CT River...

The finger is itchyy

I have to agree with what TC said good maintanace and lots of it makes all the difference oil and filters are way cheaper than engines, grease that gimbal bearing and keep the alignment in good shape and don't forget the o-rings on the driveshaft. Lube it all then lube it some more. Ideally I like to grease the gimbalbearing with the drive off that way I can see how much grease I am getting through it and that it is coming out the right place and not around the carrier. Ed

Are you looking at the 24 in the classifieds?


My 454 Mag puked at around 550 hours. This was due to reversion from faulty exhaust though. It was running strong before it sucked up some water.

I replaced it with a 496HO and still ran the same Bravo drive. Knock on wood, my drive has about 650 hours on it.

My 1979 305 V8 Mercruiser 228hp 4bbl lasted 3,174 hours until I sold it still running. Maybe more if still being used. Original top, bottom and manifolds only new accessories like starters, alternator, etc. Your 454 is higher perf so will last less but my point is, it can last a long, long time if driven easily. Fresh water also helps. It was in a small boat which rarely ran over 3000rpm.

Drive life is going to depend on the weight of the boat and use/abuse. In the habit of coming out of the hole hard? deduction. religous with lube change and alignment? addition.

Good luck

I have a 454 Magnum MPI for sale if anyone is interested. About 340 hours or so on it.

i sent you a pm for the price