An interesting bit of info I just received on the 496HO. I sold one of my motors to gentleman and he had the means to weigh it on arrival.
The motor weighed in at 1104 lbs on a simple pallet with no crate and no coupler
My partner and I both noted just how much heavier these motors were than the custom motors when we were lifting them out.
I seriously believe I will be pulling 400-500 lbs out of the rear end of our Flame. It may actually now need some bow lift (or stearn sinking) now
Maybe 5 blades...

I think my whole boat attitude is going to change a bunch. A whole round of new testing coming up.

I'm thinking my new 588s will be in the 850-900 lb/ea range. Anyone know how much the Ilmor weighs and how they react in the Flame?

I think that the 496 is one of the heaviest anchors...oops... motors... made by mercury.

I am sure your boat will have a much better riding attitude.

Chris