Yes it is becuase the further back from the crankshafo you get the more exagerated the angle becomes. Whatever the case is though proper engine alignment is crucial. You know it's right when you can move the alignment tool in and out with one finger.

The HD couplers are actually more prone to seperation(spinning) the splines are stronger and longer but the aluminum hub in the standard coupler diapates heat much better. until the HD coupler came out coupler seperation was rare now it is getting pretty common, For a low HP set up the best way to go is a standard coupler and proper engine alignement. The alignment need to be checked at the 100 hour service becuase stringers and transoms can settle and change things. this is also a good chance to lube the hell out of the splines(the grease fittings on the coupler are a joke to get to. bottom line is a properly maintaned standard coupler in Low HP app. is the best way to go and will be trouble free.

what is the cost of a new coupler? standard vs HD? I'm about to reinstall my rebuild hp500's & I'm wondering if I should replace them now??

does anyone know if the HP 500 comes with a HD coupler - &/or same as a 502MPI ??

can anyone tell condition by simply looking @ it?

that ones still in pretty good shape, what you are looking for is the shape of the splines. when they get real thin and pointy is when you have problems

I'm going to go ahead & reuse them - @ $300 plus a crack I'll take a chance. (I don't have to pay someone to change them.) besides I'm broke from the rebuilds $$