454 Mag rebuild
#2
Hours are not a great indicator on the need for a rebuild in many cases. as long as they've been well maintained and not abused, keep running them until they start using oil or loose some power. If you really want to find out how healthy they are, then do leak down tests.
#3
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 14,914
Likes: 1
From: Lake Conroe, TX.
Leak down test is good. Pull a valve cover and have a couple of your springs tested for strength.
If you don't find anything, leave them alone.
Murphy's law says that if you are thinking of having them rebuilt, the next time you run them they will break.
I know a guy though that has over 1500 hours on one of those engines.
If you don't find anything, leave them alone.
Murphy's law says that if you are thinking of having them rebuilt, the next time you run them they will break.
I know a guy though that has over 1500 hours on one of those engines.
#4
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Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 2,090
Likes: 0
From: IAD/FLL
When they start making noises or stop running altogether 
I've got 1161hrs on my '91 454MAGs, in saltwater no less. They'll still run right up to 5k rpm but we're way past when most would at least change valve springs...and rockers since we're in there. But unless you are chomping at the bit, and the oil pressure is still good, leave 'em be.
I'm dying to go through mine with at least a complete valvetrain (cam, lifters, pushrods, springs & rockers) but down here in FL, I don't want to risk taking the boat out of service if something doesn't go right.

I've got 1161hrs on my '91 454MAGs, in saltwater no less. They'll still run right up to 5k rpm but we're way past when most would at least change valve springs...and rockers since we're in there. But unless you are chomping at the bit, and the oil pressure is still good, leave 'em be.
I'm dying to go through mine with at least a complete valvetrain (cam, lifters, pushrods, springs & rockers) but down here in FL, I don't want to risk taking the boat out of service if something doesn't go right.





