496 MAG Upgrades - Unleash The Beast

[BleednBlue]

Has anyone done upgrades to the 496 MAG to get increased HP and increased MPG? If yes, what have you done? Found a couple of websites:
Chip Replacement (less expensive):
http://www.magnumtuning.com/en/detail/dyno-boost-boat-performance-chip/Mercruiser/496-mag-mpi-375

Performance Parts (Crazy expensive):
http://www.raylarengineering.com/496mag-marine-performance-parts.html

 

[Henry Boyd]

I don't think this is a good idea. Sea Rays are solid (as in heavy) boats that means the engine is under more load than a lighter go fast boat. Just because you can get more power out of the engine does not mean you will get better performance out of the boat. You could hang a 200 HP Verado off the back of a bath tub, but it isn't going to improve the performance of the bath tub!

These performance upgrades also come at a cost, and that is usually dependability. I've been down this path when I was younger with cars. Yes, you can do stuff to get more engine performance, but the trade off can be anything from hard starting to shortened life on components (and not just the engine but drive as well).

Personally, I would suggest if you want a faster boat, sell the Sea Ray and get a Donzi, or one of the other brands of go fast boats. Or better yet get a big Whaler and hang trip Verados on the transom - speed and better fuel economy.

Henry

 

[BleednBlue]

^ Agree with every thing you said. I wanted to hear it from someone more familiar with SR and their powertrain. There is always a cost which is usually dependability / longevity. Still curious if anyone has tried. I definitely do not want a "go fast" -> I'm not into their looks, floor plans and finish.

Thanks for your time!

 

[RichardS]

You could hang a 200 HP Verado off the back of a bath tub, but it isn't going to improve the performance of the bath tub!


Henry

I disagree! I think you'd have a MUCH faster bathtub!! :grin: