I got this motor and I am curious to what year range it might be? The lower unit has been replaced before I got it. Also what would a ok fuel mix to run? I been told 25-1 but I also heard 50-1. If I ran 50-1 instead will it hurt any thing?

That's an easy one. 1959. The Golden Anniversary year. It is supposed to run on 24:1. Now, the fact is that it has all needle and roller bearings. So according to that, it should be ok with 50:1. But I'm not going to tell you to do that because if it tears up you will blame it on me. It was going to tear up anyway--hey it's only 50 years old. Not only that, but a 50 year old motor is liable to have a bunch of leaks and stuff and some extra oil will probably give it an extra margin of safety. I say use 24:1. But I also say it's your choice and your risk.
they all smoke, use synthetic oil to reduce smoke at 24:1. they were an are fantastic reliable motors, if the proper maintenance has been done. they are easy to work on, most parts are still available. there are several people on the forum right now who are putting several of the motors back in reliable use.
for what it would cost a battery charger is the way to go. and possibly find a short shaft transom or modify yours. the down side to those motors are that the clutch dogs in the lower unit. if they have been shifted slowly, the gears get worn. you won't know until it is running, and tried on the water under load.
What signs will I see?
What signs will I see?
Please don't get paranoid about it jumping gear.
You'll know if a problem arises.
If the previous owner just replaced the lower, hopefully you
won't see that problem.
Take her for ride and report back how it goes.
fishr23, you have a pm!