what is this part I found in head?

[jjjewett]

1996 mercury 4 stroke 50hp non bf

Rebuilt carbs and after putting it all back together I found this in the fore side near the ports for fuel, wires, cable bundle. Any one know what it is?

 

[GA_Boater]

How long is that piece? It almost looks like a needle, but I think it's too long. A needle is only about 1/2 " long and no slot.

 

[jjjewett]

Not counting the thread alost 2"
It looks like it was threaded into plastic and the plastic piece melted and this part then pulled through/out.

 

[Fun Times]

This is a total guess but the part in question kind of resembles mercury part number 826887M which is anode found around the head assembly. Item number 8 and maybe 9? Hope you find it, good luck.
http://www.mercruiserparts.com/Show_...=Cylinder+Head
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mercury-Mari...item3cb0a79268

 

[jjjewett]

No not not the anode you are referring to Fun Times.

Thank you for the responses. I am stumped and frankly afraid to start the motor again until I figure out what this is.

-JJ

 

[GA_Boater]

It almost likes some type of alignment pin for the top cowling.