73 merc 850

[muleskinner300wm]

Is there a date range and horse power range of interchangeable powerhead parts? (Starter, Carburators, etc.) For my 73 Mercury 850

 

[rtpassini]

Re: 73 merc 850

is there a specific reason? what are you looking for?

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 73 merc 850

Mule, Over the years things evolved within the merc inline series. On your particular motor, the starter will not interchange with the later inlines. The carbs are different, but will swap, as will the rectifier and coil. The switchbox interchanges with any 70s model with battery CDI. The gearcase, midsection, transom clamp, cowl support, cowling interchange with may 4 + 6 cylinder inlines.

Specific questions are more accureately answered.

 

[electricjohn]

Re: 73 merc 850

That motor started out as a 80 hp in the 1960's and eventually became the 85 in 1973. That 66.6 cubic inch block had a long lifespan. The 65 hp engine of that era was also 66.6 CI.

 

[muleskinner300wm]

Re: 73 merc 850

is there a specific reason? what are you looking for?

I know that parts might be had to come by. The motor runs but everything looks stock and old. I might find a later model of motor that I can use the parts from.

 

[muleskinner300wm]

Re: 73 merc 850

That motor started out as a 80 hp in the 1960's and eventually became the 85 in 1973. That 66.6 cubic inch block had a long lifespan. The 65 hp engine of that era was also 66.6 CI.

So do you think I could update the motor with parts from a later model 66.6?

 

[muleskinner300wm]

Re: 73 merc 850

Mule, Over the years things evolved within the merc inline series. On your particular motor, the starter will not interchange with the later inlines. The carbs are different, but will swap, as will the rectifier and coil. The switchbox interchanges with any 70s model with battery CDI. The gearcase, midsection, transom clamp, cowl support, cowling interchange with may 4 + 6 cylinder inlines.

Specific questions are more accureately answered.

Thanks, The other problem is that the bottom carb leaks gas like a siv when running. I think it might need a simple adjustment, any thoughts?

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 73 merc 850

Rebuild kits for the carbs are available. Get a new needle seat and gasket kit. Check the carb floats for deterioation (foam float) or cracking (Hard plastic float), and replace float if it shows signs.