Wondering what the best engine would be for a boat 1998-2001. By best, I mean reliable with good power and longevity. Now don't get crazy let's keep it to 500HP, 502Mag, 500EFI, 496, 496HP? I know just enough to be dangerous but I think the answer is clearly 500HP. Am I undereducated? Any insight, common problems, nightmares to stay away from? Not looking to set speed records, just get as much speed as I can reliably and semi-stock.

I suggest you talk to Raylar for a good value on reasonable power.

I don't need to buy an engine. I'm buying my next boat and my budget falls into the 98-01 range. I've seen all the different engines (stock) and would like to be armed with all the knowledge I can. I used to have a 502 N.A. and it was bullit proof. I always wanted a 500HP but if I can't find the right boat with HP's I'd lean toward something injected. So I'd just like to know more about the engines I mentioned in my earlier post. Common ocurrences good, bad, quirks, etc or simply am I off my rocker for wanting a 500HP?

:d

500HP's are good engines. The only issue is the valve springs which need replaced in the 200-250hr interval.

As far as longevity, that is going to depend on how they were taken of to start with. I would expect full rebuilds on on 500HP and EFI's around 500hrs if they were maintained properly.

Don't know what this means... anyone?

At rebuild, are their aftermarket valve springs that would increase the replacement interval? How come the 500s have to be rebuilt so soon (500 hrs)?

You keep using terms that are relative, like reliability and longevity. Most would not consider 500hrs as "so soon"
thats 8-10 years of boating for most people. 500hrs is an average. Some people will get 300 and some 700hrs.

my 502 mag mpis have been terrific and have not heard or seen any history to suggest otherwise. my suggestion would be to buy boat/motors that are original and EFI from the factory. this will mean that they have been run at proper operating temp and proper mixture and won't suffer from the oil contamination issues and subsequent wear that so many carbed and non factory motors have. this is not to suggest that all rebuilds are bad... just that if its original /factory merc, you know for sure what you are starting with and whats in it.

I have had two sets of 500's.......great motors! Out of the category you mentioned, the 500HP over the 500efi would be my choice. It is easier to upgrade for the do it yourselfer. With the EFI, you are going to have to have access to someone who can program EFI.......and that may or may not work out right depending on who does it.