mercury outboard -what year?

[basshound]

Hey guy's,<br /> I've just gotten a really nice little twenty hp merc.The serial# is 5083500<br />the motor is black with a red stripe\white lettering.What's the year of this black beauty? Good things--bad things? any info would be great to receive,thanks

 

[boatmotor]

Re: mercury outboard -what year?

Hello The serial number you gave can pin<br />it down to 1978 Regards Tom

 

[Walter]

Re: mercury outboard -what year?

Hmmmm... Red stripes...white lettering? Just going by that description, I'd say it was more like a 1968 - 1971 model. But if Tom says the serial no. id's it as a 1978...then so it be!<br /><br />Merc's 20 hp twins have been around for years! A great motor!<br /><br />Walt

 

[basshound]

Re: mercury outboard -what year?

thanks for the speedy response Tom and Walter. If there is some doubt about the year it also has a chrome plate with "lightning Ignition" on the face,with what I believe to see"kiekhaefer mercury" below .Also on top off the caul it is labeled"200".there is a coverstrap secured by two cantalevered hooks to hold the cover on the motor.Perhaps the transom mount was from a different motor!? is there any tell all signs I'm missing? Thanks again

 

[Walter]

Re: mercury outboard -what year?

I don't know for sure, but it's likely the cowlings on any number of years would interchange on the Merc 20 hp. You gotta go by the serial number to know the year... Sometimes the model number will tell you, but anytime you inquire about parts or anything else...make sure to always provide the serial no.<br /><br />Walt