Where do we buy manuals nowadays?

[Country Dirt Kid]

It's been a while since I worked on a boat. I have an 18hp 1981 Mercury outboard that wont shift into drive or reverse. I don't want to go tearing into it without a manual. My question is, "Where are people buying repair manuals nowadays? Should I buy a paper copy or a digital one?
It sounds like an obvious question but with internet these day so much changes so fast.
thanks

 

[flyingscott]

I would try and find a mercury manual on ebay for your motor. A seloc is an OK second choice and stay away from clymer as they are much to general. I would look behind the carb at the shift linkage. They are plastic and can break.

 

[Country Dirt Kid]

much thanks. I saw a clymer manual for sale online and it seemed like it was meant to cover too much like 2 horse power all the way up to 250.

 

[Scott Danforth]

the stickies have a link to on-line manuals. however a factory manual is best

 

[roscoe]

Hard copy is best, it can go with you anywhere.

Digital limits you to location with cell-data-internet connection. And screen size.
Do you want your device covered in grease?

Also, much easier to flip back and forth between pages and illustrations.

 

[Tassie 1]

As above,
also if you have to do repairs in the driveway or backyard you'll find it difficult to see the screen due to sunlight etc etc,

hard copy is better,

l need to get my mens shed back,
anyone want a slighty wonky billiard table?