Re: What year Evinrude 225 ?
Hey antpearse: you really need to know what the serial number of the engine is. If you can't find the serial number plate on the outside, if you search the block, you can find it. This will give you the year and from there you can determine if the cover and ignition parts are original. From that you'll get an idea if the engine is a "normal" used engine or has been rebuilt or modified. Rebuilt or modified is not a bad thing, might even be better than if it's all original if it's a professional and well-done job. But something you want to know.<br /><br />The reason I say this is that the cover may or may not be original. Also, some of the ignition parts may or may not be of the original year if it's been rebuilt or remanufactured. <br /><br />In the case of my old V6 Johnson: cover says "175 VRO". No external serial number plate, but large sticker from an engine remanufacturing company. Serial number on block indicates it's a 1982 235 hp powerhead. Ignition parts are of more recent (not 1982) vintage. VRO, as far as I know, was not not even offered in 82. So, my mechanic and I had some problems identifying and ordering parts until we realized the powerhead was not of the same HP or era as the cover or some of the ignition parts. But, once that was figured out, it's been not a problem to maintain or fix. It runs great. The only problem I have is whether to refer to it as a 235 or 175. I really don't know if the '82 J/E's measured HP at powerhead or prop. So I generally just call it a "large, early 80s V6". <br /><br />Assume nothing told to you by a seller about a used engine. Find the s/n to determine era. Get a checkup by a trusted person (may or may not be the seller). But don't be afraid of well cared for older engines that check out OK.