Merc. Red stripe vs. Blue stripe.

AEROCOOK

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 28, 2004
Messages
872
My apologies if this topic has already been beaten to death, but I couldnt find anything related using the search feature.<br />Are there any significant differences aside from the year of production between red stripe motors and blue stripe motors?<br />A buddy of mine seemed to think that the quality went down a little when the founder, Kiekhaefer left the company. I believe this is around the time that the transition to blue stripe occured.<br />Obviously the company would not openly agree with this, but whats the general concensus among enthusiasts?
 

orca

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 12, 2002
Messages
422
Re: Merc. Red stripe vs. Blue stripe.

Red Band 1968-1972<br />Blue band 1973 Thru to 1982 (With variations on the type of blue)<br />During the blue band era CDI ignition was improved, New models were introduced (And old models dropped). Carbys were improved. Stainless steel drive shafts introduced.<br />The list goes on.<br />Need I say more.
 

jimmbo

Supreme Mariner
Joined
May 24, 2004
Messages
12,944
Re: Merc. Red stripe vs. Blue stripe.

Blue band started in 1972 and lasted thru 1983
 

rbruce63

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 30, 2003
Messages
212
Re: Merc. Red stripe vs. Blue stripe.

But doesn't this refer to the saltwater (blue) and sweet water (Red)?
 
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