is there a second serial number on my 1999 Mercury outboard?

[mallardtone-man]

hey guys I recently bought this 1999 Merc outboard used the owner did not have the original paperwork. I paid someone to strip it and repaint it and clean up the inside. when I got it back he had stripped off all stickers inside and out including the cereal number. I was pretty upset and can see this being a problem for me as I need to order some parts. does anyone know if there is a second serial number located anywhere on this motor or if there is any way I can reference it? Thanks in advance for any help James

 

[GA_Boater]

There should be a welch plug with the serial number pressed into a holding hole on the block. It's about the size of a nickle and somewhere on the top. I'm just recalling past posts, hopefully someone who knows will pop in.

 

[Bill kubiak]

I have a 97 40 HP and that freeze plug is on the right side hidden behind the starter