I think it might be time to pull out the original 502's and step up. Anyone with experience out there with Merc's 525 or other engine shops offerings ?

I would like to know if anyone out there trades out 496 ho's for 525's I wish I had ordered them from the start. Mine has about 50 hrs on the 04 31ss. Also do the 525's have the new block and closed cooling system??

Cass

I know the 525's have the closed cooling system but I am not sure about the new block.

525's seem alot for a 31SS. Don't the HO's push you close to 80.


Derek

I am running in the upper 70's but it would be nice to have the extra power even if you did not run it hard very often. The 525's come with xr drives and I have stock bravo one's. I am sure it is not practical to change the motors on a new boat but I still can dream and if the right deal comes along who knows. By the way what do you guys think of the cost vs the benefit of the mercruiser extended warranty??
Cass

The 525's use the 502 block with Edelbrock aluminum heads and CMI sweeper exhaust. As previously stated the motor has closed cooling so the aluminum heads in saltwater aren't an issue. It's also Smart Craft compatable(new multi-function Mercury gauge system)! Steve

The 525s are the cats ass. If you can swing em, grab em. Their are two brand new ones going up for sale in Washington State in the next few weeks. They are out of a brand new 36 Cig Gladiator that the guy is taking them out and putting FORD 429s in.

PM 2112 for info. He is all over the Cigarette Forum here on OSO.

BTW. 525s are awesome. I drove a brand new 2003 386 Sonic with a pair of them, and it was amazing. My 37AT may have a pair of 525s someday. The 496HOs will have to do for now.

I agree the 525's are hot... Pricey but great. In fact you might find it more cost effective to trade your 502 boat and have a new boat built with the 525's. Call me and check!!!!

Extended warranties are better than life insurance. Your wife doesn't really need the condo in Boco if your dead.

Are your 502s carberated? If so check out www.1800runsnew.com They have some nice motors. Check out their 540s.

just over $7k, tempting....