502 Help

[TopGun4608]

HI I am looking to buy a new boat. I own a 21 eliminator right now but its a 1980 so I want to step up a little. I am looking to spend around 40k there is a boat at conquest marine that I am looking at. Its a 1995 22 Howard Offshore. It is soo clean BUT it has a 502 in it. I have heard rumors that 502's use oil, get hot in the number 7 hole and many different things. Why should I buy the injected 502 or why should I buy a 496HO Cheetah or something.
Thanks

[DEEZ NUTTS]

I have had 2 boats and 3 502s. Yes you need to top them off every day. I broke one of em with too much timing. My own fault. Current boat has twin 502s and they never miss a beat. No reason to be scared of a 502.

[dicudmore]

502's a fine motor...
good luck to ya :D

[Nubbs]

Go with the 502!!

[B-RAD]

my 96 DCB 25 eagle has a merc 502 mag efi with the exception of Imco exhuast and a k&n is stock no problems after 435 hours on the meter still runs real strong. I bought the boat used in 99 from Daves and was told the boat ran in the ocean for most of its life. I asumed I would have to put a motor in it by now. It had about 200 hours on it. you have to add oil every now and then but the last check up at Savage Marine in November last year confermed still strong. Compared to my old Eliminator 21 w/454 squirt boat it gets great fuel economy

[Sun burners]

I hve the 502 ditto with the oil!
Just carry a couple of quarts with you.
I ran it hard all last season and it did get some wear on it.
The only trouble I had was one HOT day in Havasu 120'+ and it vapor locked and would not start, at least thats what I think.
Mike

[76biesmeyer]

I have had the same 502 in two boats now!!! I have never had any problems