time to think about repowering, originals were simply 502's.
What's the common trend out there for repowering?

How fast do you want to go and how much money do you want to spend? 496HO's are the best bang for the buck, 1075's would be a lot of fun!

Off subject but how do you like the 358? Ride comfort?
As far as repower 496 HO or go for the HP 525's they are a great motor from what I hear.

HO's will be equal replacement for your 502's. 500's or 525's in my opinion is way to go. Not sure how boat handles bigger power.

Our 2001 358 had 500efi's and handled it fine the 525's would be the way to go if you don't want blower's. The 358 engine bay is tight. I almost put the 575's in our 358 but it wasn't worth the extra money at the time and the seat back had to be clearenced for the blower belt. Our 358 ran approx. 80mph with a light load of fuel.

Merc 496 engines are being phased out by Merc. 525 efi are the only way to go for your boat

I find it hard to believe that the 496 is being phased out. Where did you get that information?

What would replace the 496 if they were to phase it out? Merc usually lags several years after the introduction of a new block to the market.

Outboards