Hey there,

I'm looking to repower from a tired 310 HP 454 and want to drop in a turn key (new everything w/ warranty) 502 or 496 Mercruiser.

I have been told that my current setup would not mate up with the current Mercruiser 496, but I'm interested in this engine for the reliable horsepower and closed cooling (I run salt water). The dealer would not give me any specifics on why this would not match up, but was quick to give me a great deal on a 502 longblock.

I have a 1997 BAJA 232 with a Bravo 1 and need to repower for one more year of enjoyment, then I plan on moving to something 29 - 32 running twins. Does anyone know why the 496 may not match up to my current setup?

I believe it is only the wiring harness that wouldn't match up. You can always replace yours. Sounds like he's trying to get rid of a 502!!

If you want to do a complete drop in of the 496, it will match as far as the motor mounts and the transom assembly. As long as the motor comes with its complete harness, its pretty much a plug and play.

That said, the 502 is a much stronger piece than the 496, with better parts etc.

502 Mag .... ALL FRESH ...500 EFI cam ..Crane Gold roller setup ...ad exhaust and Coupler ...Plug and play ....6500.00

Get a hold of Dave M here on OSO. He did this swap himself on his 24 SuperBoat a couple seasons ago; with great results.

I have done the swap the biggest problem is exhaust. if you are using a y pipe thru prop you will have to get a new one to match the 496. if you are using thru hull tips you can make custom pipes as i did or go thru all of the hassle of relocating the outlets on the transom. The harness, steering lines fuel lines and battery cables all line up. I had to switch the throttle and shift cables as on my boat one is longer than the other and are oppsite on the 496. i also had to shorten the water intake hose. Depending on the boat I had to rework my engine beds for clearence of the belt and pulleys on the front of the engine. Good luck. Brian

The exhaust is of course different, which has nothing to do with the block bolting into the mounts. The mounts on a 496 are the same as the mounts on a 454/502

i replaced 454 with 496 ho's in an '89 34' scarab.
i had to remove about 1" of engine compartment
for exhaust clearance. that was it. best move i've ever made.
they burn almost half what the 454-365's did and they have
more hp. plus they start every time. they do have inferior
internal parts, but i figure they'll be fine leaving them stock.

Thanks for the info. I really do like the 232, but I can't break 35 offshore without some real excitement breaking loose. I think the 502 will also make the boat more saleable. Thanks again.

Mike. Shoot me an email with the specifics. That's the price range I'm working in. when you say "Fresh", what exactly does this mean? What are the hours?

[email protected]

Thanks for the quick response!