When I buy my 242 LS in the near future (with any luck) I'm sure that it will come with a stock engine unless I get lucky and find one where someone has upgraded. It will most likely be 330 hp. The trick is I want to get about 415 or between 400-450. What would you recommend for this. 454 ci or a 502, and which engine will handle this hp better and which is more reliable if any?

502 would probably be your best bet. You can buy a 502/415 pretty cheap.

Outlaw,
As for which engine would be better for 400-450 horses, I don't really know, probably the 502.

But,,,,,,as was said in other threads in this forum, there are some '91 and '92 242s out there that came from the factory with 502s. I've seen them for sale on various sites in the past. They are still bringing a pretty good buck (mid to high twenties). Thats what I would do, look for a nice stock boat that came with a 502.

I'll search around for a while, I love boat shopping

I had a 242 that came with a 454 Magnum. After rebuilding it, I sold the engine and bought a crate 502, then a year later added a blower to it.

A "mild" 502 will easily get you the HP you want. I was running @65mph with the natural 502, and 78mph with the blower.

that's the reply I was waiting for Cigbificant! I'll keep my eyes open. Thanks

Thirdbird, if you know of any sites with one on there let me know! thanks

also, Cignificant, how much hp did the 502 have that you installed before you added the blower?

Sounds sweet to me.