What Would Be A Better Combo A .250 Stroked 454 =488 Or 502 In Heavy Boat

Actually, I believe adding a another .250" of stroke to a 454 would make it 482 cubes, +.030" bore would make it 489 cubes and +.060" bore would make it 496 cubes.

I kind of like the idea of the shorter stroke and larger bore size of the 502. It probably isn't going to make a whole lot of difference, but with the shorter stroke the rod angle makes things a little easier on cylinder, rings, and piston wear and less reciprocating weight being thrown around. If you were to take a the exact same components in a 496 vs 502 I am not exactly sure which engine would make more power. Perhaps the 496 would make more torque than the 502, but I am not exactly sure on that. Perhaps someone else can chime in here.

Bigger bore on the 502 does a far better job of unshrouding the valves. This results in better flow and better torque and power.

That's an easy decision.

If indeed the boat is heavy I would most likely go with the stroker for better performance in the bottom speeds but the 502 is also a great engine . Good luck Laz Mesa

Stroke the 502 from 4.00" to 4.25" and make it a 540.
I have a few if you need to purchase.