New Mexico with eight 16-inch guns

Could the New Mexico class have carried eight 16-inch guns in 1917?

The conversion appears possible in principle, although the barbette dimensions need closer checking and the cost would be substantial.

The historical class carried twelve 14-inch guns in four triple turrets. Replacing them with eight 16-inch guns is considered physically plausible. A firm answer requires a closer examination of the barbette dimensions and structural arrangements. As with many major-calibre changes, the decisive obstacle would probably be willingness to pay for the redesign rather than a simple impossibility.