How to Order the Correct Outboard Parts for Your Engine (SSI Marine Guide)

November 23, 2025
Posted by DANIELA BESLIU

How to Order the Right Part for Your Outboard – SSI Marine

Ordering outboard parts can be confusing — many parts look similar, but they will not always fit your specific engine. At SSI Marine, our goal is to help you get it right the first time so you can enjoy more time on the water and less time dealing with exchanges and returns.

This guide will help you:

Find your engine model and serial number
Understand special engine cases (Mariner, High Thrust, Command Thrust, Big Foot)
Choose the correct propeller size and pitch
Avoid the common mistakes we see every day

If you’re ever unsure, simply email us — we’re always happy to assist.

Step 1 — Ordering the Right Part for Your Outboard

Every outboard part is engine-specific. Even parts that look identical may differ internally and will not fit your model.

We always build our product descriptions using our own research and experience, but the most accurate way to identify parts is by using your engine’s details.

Before placing an order, please:

Find your model and serial number
Check that the part is listed as suitable for your exact model
If in doubt, email us and we’ll verify compatibility for you

We do have our own internal part lists, but due to manufacturer policies we’re not allowed to publish them online. However, with your engine details, you will find very good exploded diagrams and parts breakdowns available on the internet. If you ever need help identifying the right part, just email us your engine model and serial number — we’re always happy to help.

Step 2 — How to Find Your Engine Serial Number

Your outboard will have a metal plate or durable sticker on the engine bracket (transom mount). This plate shows:

Model
Serial number
Horsepower / variant
Year code (depending on brand)

Tip: These plates can become dirty or faded. Take a clear photo so you always have a record.

Brand-by-Brand Identification Guide

Yamaha Outboards

Yamaha plates typically show:

Model name
Prefix model code
Transom length
Serial number
Year code

Use the combination of prefix and year code to match your engine precisely.

Yamaha identification chart Yamaha plate layout

Suzuki Outboards

Suzuki serial labels typically include:

Model (e.g. DF6A)
Serial code
Manufacturer information

Always send us the full printed code so we can match the exact parts diagram.

Suzuki serial plate example

Mercury Outboards

Mercury labels normally include:

Model number
Serial number
HP and kW rating
Weight and CE markings

You’ll usually find the label on the transom bracket or swivel bracket.

Mercury identification label

Mariner Outboards

Mariner outboards can be a mix of Yamaha- and Mercury-built engines.

2-stroke models up to about 1992: Yamaha-built (uses a Yamaha-style identification plate).
2-stroke models after 1992: Mercury-built (uses a Mercury-style identification plate).
All 4-stroke Mariner outboards: Mercury-built.

These examples help you see whether your Mariner is effectively a Yamaha-type or a Mercury-type engine, which is important for ordering the correct parts.

Mariner Yamaha-type identification plate Mariner serial tag styles

Honda Outboards

Honda uses slim black metal tags showing:

Model
Serial number
“Made in Japan” marking

Honda serial plate

Tohatsu Outboards

Tohatsu plates are usually white stickers showing:

Model (e.g. MFS4B)
Serial number
Rated power and full-throttle RPM range

Tohatsu identification label

Johnson / Evinrude Outboards

Johnson & Evinrude engines have their own plates, typically on the transom or swivel bracket, showing the model and serial number.

Johnson / Evinrude serial plate

If the Serial Plate Is Missing

Sometimes the plate is missing, painted over, or too worn to read. Don’t worry — we can still help.

Please email us with:

A clear photo of the engine with the cowling on
A clear photo with the cowling off, showing the powerhead
Any visible casting numbers or stickers
A short note about which parts you’re looking for

We’ll do our best to identify the model and recommend the correct parts.

Special Case: High Thrust / Command Thrust / Big Foot Gearboxes

Some engines on the market use a High Thrust, Command Thrust or Big Foot gearbox.

For example, your engine might be a 50HP, but with a Big Foot or Command Thrust gearbox from the next size up. In that case:

Most powerhead / block parts match the standard 50HP.
Gearcase parts (propeller, impeller, anodes, seals, etc.) match the larger gearbox.

When ordering gearbox parts, please always check whether your engine is Standard, High Thrust, Command Thrust or Big Foot. If you are not sure, email us and we can help you check.