alternative model/serial number locations, mid 70's evinrude 85? 135?

[myboatisbroke]

Hello, I rescued an outboard from the local scrapyard and have some discrepancies on what year/hp it is. I got it running good, and posted in on craigslist with the model number on the transom bracket, 135883, which would mean 1973 135hp. A fellow e-mailed me and informed me that the pictures show an 85hp model of the same vintage due the fact the exhaust plate on rear of motor are completely different between a 135 and 85. He told me about the soft plug on the motor that should have the model number stamped on it, however I cannot find it. It makes more sense someone would have replaced the transom bracket as opposed to putting an 85hp exhaust on a 135. Is there any other way to determine the year and hp? I'd hate to sell it to someone thinking its a 135 when it may be an 85.

Thanks

 

[boobie]

The plug you're looking for is about the size of a quarter. Could be this was a stolen motor at one time.

 

[myboatisbroke]

I'll take another look for it, thanks for the reply.

 

[hardwater fisherman]

I think if it was a 1973 model the number should be 135383.

 

[emdsapmgr]

Here is a 1975 serial/model tag from the top of the block-usually painted over, this is what it looks like.

 

[racerone]

Pictures ?????

 

[myboatisbroke]

kinda crappy pics, but here is what I have, haven't had a chance to get out to barn to look at the plug yet(yes I already know it has an 85hp cover on it)

 

[Faztbullet]

If not a 135hp...

 

[dazk14]

As Fazt said, it's not a 135. It would need the bubble back exhaust. The cover is a 1973.

 

[emdsapmgr]

That engine is extremely clean under the cowling. Looks to be repainted by someone who knows that they are doing.