What IS this thing?

[HT32BSX115]

Howdy all!


I have a wonderful 2004 9.8hp Tohatsu outboard that I bought new. It actually runs great! (although I haven't used it much)

I want to download the correct parts manual for it and I have found 3 possible for use.

If I use the year model (2004) on the sticker, there's no question.

If I use the actual model number on the sticker, MFS9.8A I guess there's no question either except

MFS9.8A is a 2003,

VIEW	4-Stroke	Tohatsu	MFS9.8A	2003
VIEW	4-Stroke	Nissan	NSF9.8A2	2004
VIEW	4-Stroke	Tohatsu	MFS9.8A2	2004
VIEW	4-Stroke	Nissan	NSF9.8A3	2006
VIEW	4-Stroke	Tohatsu	MFS9.8A3	2006

My full model number is MFS9.8A 3V2 which implies 2006? and the serial # is 033141 XC
(BUT above the model number is says model year 2004)


SO, since there appears to be a different parts manual for all three, which do I use?

 

[pvanv]

Re: What IS this thing?

Always go by model. Year is irrelevant for servicing. The A2 and A3 are merely minor revisions. The reason that you see the year associated with the parts catalog is that it's the publication date of that particular catalog, nothing more, nothing less less.

The model year on the sticker is for EPA compliance, and may be later than the actual date of manufacture.

FWIW, I always start with the most modern catalog for that precise model, and if necessary (due to engineering mods)... if the new bits aren't 100% compatible with the earlier catalog... then resort to going back. Reason is that often superceded bits are a good upgrade for the older sub-models.

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: What IS this thing?

Hi Paul,


Thanks for the info! I just want to ensure that I am looking at the right parts manual for carb repair kits, timing belt etc....

So I would use MFS9.8A? the suffix "3V2" after the model probably doesn't mean anything?

Thanks again!


Rick

 

[TOHATSU GURU]

Re: What IS this thing?

MFS9.8A3 means everything...In combination with the serial number.

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: What IS this thing?

MFS9.8A3 means everything...In combination with the serial number.

Ok, That was my point of confusion.

My full model number is MFS9.8A_3V2 (note the underscore to emphasize the space) The serial is 033141_XC

Does this make mine an "A3"? I would expect no space between the "8A" & "3"

 

[pvanv]

Re: What IS this thing?

The 3V2 designation is a super-minor revision indication or the manufacturing batch. You have an A, manufactured in 2003. There have been some improvements, for instance to the neutral safety cable system on the recoil starter lockout. But pretty much everything will interchange between an A, A2, and A3. As Elvin noted, always refer to the model in combination with serial when ordering parts.