Merc outboard identity crisis

[Huron Angler]

This Mercury came with this boat when purchased used and I've got a few questions about it. I will get the serial number to confirm but I am curious of the ballpark year.

The HP is unclear since the front cowling has 45 while the lower unit shows 50. I'm assuming the 50 is correct due to its location.

The 2-cycle oil pump went and we were told that it cannot be replaced with a new one for some reason due to the motor's age. I'm not convinced that is true. Mixing will work in the meantime though.

This is the oil reservoir and pump that just went bad recently

You can see the conflicting HP numbers in this view, not sure if the front that reads 45 was a replacement from a different motor or what. PO is not available to ask unfortunately.

 

[Huron Angler]

Re: Merc outboard identity crisis

I thought I should include a picture of the boat as well as Lake Huron in the background.

 

[green4themoney]

Re: Merc outboard identity crisis

:S has the decals of an early 90's merc but the lower cowl of a 1972 merc hmmm looks like a little modification was done to this one, but it also appears to have the hood of an older merc

 

[Huron Angler]

Re: Merc outboard identity crisis

:S has the decals of an early 90's merc but the lower cowl of a 1972 merc hmmm looks like a little modification was done to this one, but it also appears to have the hood of an older merc

She's a real humpty dumpty outboard...at least somebody got her back together somehow...and she runs great