496 MAG HO...ProCharger or Whipple?

[CheckSpeed]

Just want to hear positives and negatives of each system...I want some RELIABLE POWER ON my engine

I know the ProCharger is cheaper, and is easier on the drive...

But the Whipple comes with the re-programmed ECU (does it come with it or do you have to upgrade?)...

Do both come with upgraded fuel items (injectors, pumps, regulators?)

Thanks for your help!

 

[JY]

CS: Go onto OSO and do a search on the topic. The issue has been discussed many times, usually with the conclusion that Whipple is more reliable but that any 496HOs built after 2003 don't have the internals to take much boost. It is usually suggested that the entire bottom-end be re-done at the same time, and even then there are horror stories. If you want reliable power, look at trading what you have against a stock naturally aspirated engine with more cubes. Problem is, everything over 425 hp gets pricey. Raylar also has their package for the 496. Good luck.

 

[Lakeside Restorations]

Just want to hear positives and negatives of each system...I want some RELIABLE POWER ON my engine

I know the ProCharger is cheaper, and is easier on the drive...

But the Whipple comes with the re-programmed ECU (does it come with it or do you have to upgrade?)...

Do both come with upgraded fuel items (injectors, pumps, regulators?)

Thanks for your help!

You pretty much already seem to have a handle on the pros & cons.. If you have a newer than 04 then I would go Whipple, if it is older than I would go with a procharger. We sell & install both. Both come with the basic required upgrades for the fuel systems for running low boost. Some higher boost levels require the purchasing of additional components.. Jamie / Lakeside

.

 

[vinny p.]

You may find this link interesting. It doesnt talk about superchargers, but its interesting none the less.

http://www.fullthrottlemarine.com/

Click on High Performance Projects then 496 dyno testing

 

[CheckSpeed]

I am also looking at maybe getting a lower hour 502 for cheap...what would be the best supercharger for that engine...its a 502 MAG MPI...

Thanks

 

[vinny p.]

Personally, I would not go with a supercharger on a stock Merc engine. I wouldnt supercharge an engine with standard head gaskets and exhaust valves. If you go with a charger on a 502 or 496, at the very least, go for Cometic head gaskets and inconel exhaust valves.

 

[CheckSpeed]

You think Raylar would be a better option with there 103 kit? damn near as much as the supercharger

 

[happy]

I've whippled quite a few 496's w/no problems.. have a pair out there been running strong for 2.5 years now.. and that guy doesn't take care of his boat at all..

 

[vinny p.]

I've whippled quite a few 496's w/no problems.. have a pair out there been running strong for 2.5 years now.. and that guy doesn't take care of his boat at all..

Daryl,

Did you do any internal engine mods or did you leave them stock? Call me anal and crazy, but I just dont trust stock Merc gaskets and valves.

 

[happy]

pull the restricters out of the manifolds, change the fuel lines to an -8 feed -6 return, change plugs, and add the bigger heat exhchangers.. never changed a head, never did a valve, and those 496's run..

admitablly,, the first set i set in.. i had alot of issues.. or problems that i didn't like.. -6 is too small feed line, need to be at least -8. depends on what pump you use.. follow the manufactures suggestion on the pump.. and by god, return to the tank.. or get you an ungodly sized fuel cooler, otherwise you'll vapor lock. Whipple instructions are great, but,, but, not on the fuel supply.. Time wise figures your looking at about 40 hrs an engine..

alot of components get moved, removed, or replaced, while its not rocket science, some of these lil quirks will become quite time consuming. especially if you consider maintenance issues..

i do prefer the lysome charger, over the sidewinder, overall better maintenace can be performed.. as well as .. looks..