Re: whats the oldest engine you've seen running
I have run one of the oldest Mercs in existence - serial #1528, 1939; as well as one of the oldest Evinrudes, #790, 1909. They don't get run much, but they do run when asked...
As for finding a mech in your area, might want to poke around a bit. Ask the mech at your local marina who they send the "old off brand" stuff to. There's usually one or two guys in most waterfront communities who tinker with the old stuff. Don't ask the squeaky clean kid at the counter - ask the mech with the grime under his nails. He'll know...
- Scott