Depends on the year and where it is located in the numbers string. But most likely it tells which factory it was built at. E= Evinrude (Milwaukee), J=Johnson Waukegan). Yes, they did make each others' motors.
Thanks. My engine has J35ELCSM stamped on it. The only factory service manual i could find has a E35ELCSM listed on the cover. It looks like the specs for the engine should be the same if Johnson and evinrude made the same engine right?
The Story goes that after manufacture, the engines are run, the better performing ones are painted one Brand's Colour ,and the rest are painted the other Brand's Colour, As to which Brand is Superior, is... take your pick