looking at purchasing a new to me used boat.have it narrowed down to two boats.both have a stock 496,both used in fresh water.assuming that both have been properly maintained and not abused.the nicer of the two is a 2002 with 500 hours and the other is 2004 with 300 hours(this one needs some minor gel coat repairs).is 500 hours a high hour engine?,

thank you

The 496 properly maintained should be good for 800+. Have them both scanned to see actual hours and where they were ran though. 400 of those 500 could be at idle. On the flip side 400 of the 500 could be at 4000+

Pics of the gel coat that needs to be repaired?

I don't think so for a 496, for a 500efi etc yes

This seems to be the "issue" with my boat. I have 500 hrs and people think that is high yet they don't scan the motors to see most was at low speed.

I just bought a 05 Sunsation 32 with 475 hrs. I had both engines scanned and leak down and compression test everything came back good so I bought it, I did plenty of research here on OSO and the general thought was if the numbers look good and the bulk of the hours at lower rpm they should be good up to that 800/900 hour mark. Just spend the money for the leak and compression test and you will be money ahead in the long run. Another good point someone made to me was take a good hard look at the boat and especially the trailer if someone goes the extra mile to keep the trailer in good shape them most likely the boat has been well cared for , good luck with your purchase.

In some cases the hours on an engine are just a number -- Provided the owner can demonstrate proper maintenance, receipts, records. In God we trust -- everyone else put it in writing. If you can't get the receipts -- run don't walk away.

When we purchased our boat - it did have low hours - leak test was done and it was perfect - records from the dealer clearly showed proper oil, outdrive maintenance. Buying anything used is somewhat of a gamble - but if you do your homework problems can be avoided.

All the best

3pointstar

I don't think you can make an accurate assessment based on hours for mentioned reasons plus one more- I would pick a well maintained engine with even a 1,000 hours over a short time period over one with 200 hours over 10 years especially if salt water. What's the old saying, if it isn't running it is rotting.

496 is closed cooled. So as long as they were not lazy and had 10min to flush.....the salt should be a non issue with that motor

It is the unknown maintenance and sitting for extended periods that I dislike. I would prefer one with good maintenance and was run more frequently, like yours!