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HP Upgrade

Discussion in 'Engines' started by Timeout 64, Jul 19, 2026.

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  1. Timeout 64

    Timeout 64 New Member

    Joined:
    Apr 6, 2018
    Messages:
    1
    Location:
    Sag Harbour - Miami Beach
    Have a 72 Fly with MAN 1400hpV12's approx 1,000 hrs on each. Just came off of extended warranties and have a question for all you MAN experts out there. I have "heard" that you can simply have a very savvy tec come in and change the software to add Hp. I have a friend with a similar boat with 1650hp MANs and he has the same ZF gear so that shouldnt be a problem. Is this possible???
  2. Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

    Joined:
    Sep 8, 2004
    Messages:
    14,518
    Location:
    Satsuma, FL
    Software change is probably the easiest.
    Then;
    Propeller mods, if not ratio changes in the gears.
    Injectors, Turbos, Air coolers, Engine coolers, Engine mounts, Engine room ventilation, Fuel accessories & plumbing size will all have to be considered.
    All reducing the life of your already high strung engines.
    All reducing the value of your ship.

    But wait there is more;
    What is the hull going to do with that extra horse power?
    Angle of attack of the prop thrust may drive your bow further down into the waves.
    I would bet that hull design is already a waist of HP and already over powered.

    Horse power is just a measurement of combusting fuel.
    Torque makes a properly designed boat stronger.

    IMO, the safest mods you can offer this boat is make her a bit stronger,, take out some propeller pitch. This will help the engines not slow down so much crawling up a swell or get out of its hole.

    Or trade in on something else that is factory rigged to go faster.
    Last edited: Jul 19, 2026
  3. Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

    Joined:
    Jul 11, 2005
    Messages:
    14,883
    Location:
    Fort Lauderdale
    Yes, those are the same motors as the 1550's. But not sure which tech you'd ever find to flash them.