What does serial number tell me

[RichRab]

Can someone tell me what year my motor is or how to look it up? 1G12210. Thanks. RR

 

[Chigwalla]

Mercury serial numbers won't tell you much: they aren't 'decodable' like a VIN or HIN - they are sequential.
On the small engines, the letter R in the second place means that they are made in the Tohatsu plant (which Brunswick owns half of).
Any dealer can look up that serial and give you the year, whether or not it's still under warranty, and if there are outstanding SBs.
The decal on the transom bracket with the serial number also gives you the model year. Look for a 2 digit number in the bottom right box.

 

[JoLin]

Engine components change over time. Cooling systems, ignition systems, drive belts, etc have all been rdesigned over the years. Using serial number in a parts lookup will lead you to the right stuff.

BTW, I believe the serial number you posted is one digit short.

 

[Chigwalla]

Yep, missing a digit.
When you look up a part number, you can view the supercession chain.