Verifying engine serial numbers

[tacx]

Is there a way to verify that the engine serial number thats on the flame arrestor actually matches the engine? In other words, is the serial number somewhere on the engine itself?I

The reason I ask is that the boat is a 1998 but mercury support tells me the engine left their plant in 1995?

Mercruiser 5.7L 350

Thanks
Tom

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,..... If it's still there, there should be a little tag riveted to the block just above, 'n/ or aft of the starter,......

 

[thumpar]

Check down by the starter for a tag that has a serial number on it. It would not be unusual for a 1995 engine to be in a later model boat. Is it a Vortec? Vortec was 1996 and later engines.

 

[Scott Danforth]

how many intake manifold bolts are there? 8 or 12. if its 12, its a 1995, if its 8, its a 1996 or later

someone could have lost the original flame arrestor cover and replaced it.

 

[tacx]

Thanks guys,
i will check my photos of the engine. If that does not help i will check this weekend when we get to the cottage.

Tom