For boat enthusiasts, owning an old Mercury outboard motor is a prized possession. If you're lucky enough to have one, you may need to identify its serial number for registration, insurance, or maintenance purposes. However, finding the serial number on an old Mercury outboard motor can be a bit tricky, especially if the motor is decades old. In this article, we'll explore various locations of old Mercury outboard serial numbers, so you can easily identify yours.
Understanding Old Mercury Outboard Serial Numbers
Before we dive into the locations of old Mercury outboard serial numbers, it's essential to understand how they're formatted. Mercury outboard serial numbers typically consist of letters and numbers and are 6 to 11 characters long. The first two or three characters represent the model code, followed by a hyphen, and then a series of numbers that indicate the production year and the model's horsepower. The last two characters may include letters that represent the model's features, such as "EL" for electric start or "EH" for electric and hydraulic tilt.
Location 1: Transom Bracket
The transom bracket is the most common location for Mercury outboard serial numbers, even for older models. The transom is the flat area at the back of the boat where the motor is attached. Look for a metal plate or sticker on the transom bracket that displays the serial number. The plate is usually located on the right or left side of the bracket and may be hidden behind the motor's mounting bracket. If you can't find the serial number on the bracket, check the sides of the transom or the motor's clamp bracket.
Tip:
If the serial number on the transom bracket is faded or hard to read, try cleaning it with a soft brush and some soapy water. Alternatively, use a flashlight to shine light on the plate from different angles to make the serial number more visible.
Location 2: Swivel Bracket
If you have an older Mercury outboard motor, you may find the serial number on the swivel bracket. The swivel bracket is the part that connects the motor to the transom bracket and allows the motor to pivot. Look for a metal plate or sticker on the swivel bracket that displays the serial number. The plate is usually located on the right or left side of the bracket, near the top. If you can't find the serial number on the swivel bracket, check the motor's clamp bracket or the sides of the transom.
Tip:
If the serial number on the swivel bracket is hard to read, try using a magnifying glass to enlarge the characters. Alternatively, take a photo of the plate with your phone and zoom in on the image to make the serial number more visible.
Location 3: Owner's Manual
If you've lost or misplaced your old Mercury outboard motor's serial number, check the owner's manual. The manual should have a section that displays the motor's specifications, including the model code and serial number. If you don't have the original owner's manual, you may be able to find a digital copy online or contact Mercury directly to request one.
Tip:
Make a note of your old Mercury outboard motor's serial number and keep it in a safe place, such as your boat's file or your personal records. This way, you'll always have the information on hand when you need it.
In conclusion, identifying the serial number of an old Mercury outboard motor is essential for registration, insurance, and maintenance purposes. While the location of the serial number can vary depending on the motor's age and model, the most common locations include the transom bracket, swivel bracket, and owner's manual. By knowing where to look, you can easily find your old Mercury outboard motor's serial number and enjoy your prized possession for years to come.
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