I looking for some opinions, on what a pair of 1997 HP500's are worth. They have ~60 hours on them, complete.
Thanks,
Dean

Change the valve springs before installing. Teague had a good article in Hot Boat on these motors and their valve train issues. Joe Murray

Dean,
I payed $6000 for a pair of 2000 hp500 efi long blocks with 100hrs on them . just an example , hope this helps
kevin

Anyone know how difficult this is? I'm getting a boat in the next couple days with HP500's, I'm aware of the broken valve spring problem and was wondering how difficult? I'm VERY mechanically inclined, wondering if I should do myself or just let a pro refresh the whole topend of the motors?

97's with 60hrs ?

have you run em yet ? how it work out ?

I think it's funny...a couple motors out of thousands break a couple springs & all or a sudden all the other motors have to have the springs replaced...the new ones could break just as easily as far as the odds go...don't worry about the heads for at least 500 hours...I know many will disagree but it's just my .02...I know of several people w/over 500 hrs on these motors with no problems at all...a few mechanics I trust w/my investments say the head problems have more to do w/moisture than anything... CHANGE THE OIL FREQUENTLY!!! Especially after hard runs...Like I said,just my .02.
As far as picking up that pair for 6k...stole 'em...know where theres another pair?

Here we go again. Love this topic. Do we replace springs at 200 hours or not?

My 97' 500's, 250hrs Starboard side 0 broken springs, Port side=6 broken springs. They never show signs until it's to late, Cheap insurance if you ask me. I've seen recent pricing from 7500.00-15,000.00 a pair. IMO it depends on the condition and what accessories come with the deal. 6000.00 is a steal no matter how you cut it. Some say the 500 carbs are old tech, but they're proven reliable and run strong. Good Luck

Yep,
They came out of a prototype cat hull.
Dean