Has anyone done any perfromance modifications to this motor?
Is so what are they and how did you like them?

TTT

I have been wondering the same thing. I think there was a couple post of people adding the exhaust to the Mag 496 HO last fall. I belive they had to modify one for a 502, and I am not sure what that all involved. I also think some changed to the K&N airfilter but, I don't think they gained much. I ran a thread on the Procharger and didn't get any response. I have been waiting for the Whipple SC to be released but they keep telling me 30 days. I have the Mag 496 HO in a 25 foot Eliminator Eagle and would like to make it faster. I know there is a waiting line to get the Whipple SC when it is released. If we keep this post going maybe we can find out some more info. Sorry not much help.

Mike

I have been looking for the same info.I understand Flagship Marine in Fl. has done some work on these with some luck but it's not cheap. I have a 496ho in a 2001 AT 28 and just need a little more, then a little more, then a little more.

Hey guys!

Last year HotBoat had an article on some performance mods that Arizona Speed and Marine did to the 496MAG-HO's including IMCO Powerflow Marine Exhaust Manifolds and ECM reprogramming. They were simple mods that netted almost 460 HP. I have the article electronically if anyone would care to read it.
(The files total about 1.5megs so make certain your e-mail service can accept large file attachments and e-mail me if interested.)
[email protected]

Secondly, the Vortec HP3's that are running the APBA circuit currently are putting out about 525HP or so. These are virtually the same 8.1L GM engines that comprise Merc's 496MAG-HO's. I think the only differences are a more aggressive cam, ECM programming, some minor head work and free-flowing exhaust.