1981 Merc 50hp Wiring Modifications ???

I've just been inspecting the wiring on the outboard that came with my 'new boat' and noticed that the wiring has been modified. The serial number is 5534128. I have the shop manual for this outboard and on comparing the wiring diagram to the actual wiring, I've noticed some differences and an extra part and wondered if anyone out there has seen this modification and could tell me what it does.



The above image was taken out of my shop manual (many thanks to Clymer for the image). Terminal 1 and 5 are 'blanked off' and not used. Inserted between Terminals 2 and 4 is this device...



Here is another picture of the device in context...



Can anybody tell me why this is done?? and why the wiring from the stator for terminals 1 and 5 is not needed.

Many thanks
Lee

Re: 1981 Merc 50hp Wiring Modifications ???

Someone has coverted your stator to a newer style red stator and that is a adapter module

Re: 1981 Merc 50hp Wiring Modifications ???

Thanks Laddies - Does this modification have any effect on ignition timing??

Re: 1981 Merc 50hp Wiring Modifications ???

No.