can't find serial number plate what next?

[moreland]

I just purchased a new to me boat and it has a Mercury 800 with red stripe. I found this site looking for information on the motor. I have read as many posts as I can they all say where to look for serial number plate. I have checked on the transome mount not there, I have looked over motor with fine tooth comb, no plates anywhere, what can I do to find a serial number so I can track the year, of how else can I tell. thank you in advance.
moreland

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: can't find serial number plate what next?

I've got roughly the same vintage Merc 800 with the red accent bands. Mine is a 1971. Yours will be somewhere between 1969 and 1972 I believe.

Check on the upper distributor mounting bracket for a stamped serial number. Will say something like 2881234.

Failing that, how many fuel pumps, one or two?
Does it have points or a CDI ignition?

Others can probably offer more advise.

 

[turtles11756]

Re: can't find serial number plate what next?

unless the serial # was removed it's stamped on the block somewhere

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: can't find serial number plate what next?

Its stamped on casting boss to the left of the 3rd transfer port cover....