Identifying year on Johnson 30hp

[1420footer]

Hey guys! I'm new here but have been reading these forums for years. You guys have some awesome info!
But I have a problem. I got a Johnson 30hp and have used it in salt and now the ID plate coroded off and I don't know how to tell what year it is. Maybe you guys can help me out? I should also say I know it's newer than 1973 and older than 2000
The number on the freeze plug says G3098112 if that helps. Is there any other way to tell?
I need to figure out the year mainly because this motor ran great all year then randomly died out in ocean and left me stranded with no spark at any of the plugs! Any info is greatly appreciated guys

 

[kodibass]

Post a few photos of the motor, (its not that hard to do) & you will get the replies you need, I bet....

 

[hardwater fisherman]

I think the 30hp was reintroduced in 1984. The early models were white. And then they black I think. Or maybe some sort of a grey.