boatinbill

Ok, simple question, what is the difference between the 496Mag and the 496MagHO, besides 50hp.

Also, please share any expereince with these motors.

I currently have a HP500EFI in my current boat, thinking of trading up in boat size to twins and the 496HO appears to be pretty close to the HP500 in performance that I can not see paying the difference.

Opinions please!!!!

stevejohns

I beleive its the crankshaft and camshafts that are upgraded , along with different ecm settings. There is a diff in the rev limiter as well , I think the 496 is at 4600 and the 496HO is 5100. The 500hp is a much stronger motor with a much higher grade of components. sj

CigDaze

As of now, the differences are:

496 MAG = cast crank
496 MAG HO = Forged crank, more aggressive cam, ecm programming.

However, word is that since the HP3's(496 HO HO's) which are putting out about 525HP are performing so well in testing and APBA racing with the cast crank, that for 2003, the forged crank will not be available.

CigDaze

Steve,
I guess we were posting at about the same time.

However, the 496MAG operates at 4400-4800 rpm and the HO at 4600-5000 rpm. You're right about the rev limiters, though!

boatinbill

thanks Steve and Baja,

I have had troubles with my Hp500EFi and that thing is expensive to work on, parts are all custom for Merc. I needed a piston at $340, friend needed an oil pump $520, liftera at $90 each, so on and so on.

I knew that the blue paint cost a lot, but didn't realize how much more once in the shop. Black paint will do me just fine next time around.

boatinbill

The easy maintenance promised with these motors make them sound good also.

Any issues with the closed cooling?

CigDaze

Nope, works beautifully!