Hi, I just purchased a 9.8 Mercury. The Cowl has 75 printed on it. The sn# is 9410903. From what I have found so far I think it is an 85 or 86. I got it at a good price, but now I'm not so sure. There is (was)a hose running from an outlet on the engine to a nipple inside the cover at the side of the engine. I am thinking that this is for water?? for cooling???. The hose was slightly damaged (melted) at one end. Is this a sign that the impeller is not working correctly? Apart from a few scratches is seems to be in very good condition. It starts first pull and there are no problems going into forward or reverse. Any thought anyone has on the hose etc. Would be really appreciated.<br /><br />Kevin