Yes, it is a 1972 model "110". Yes, it is a 9.8 horse, but referring to it as a 9.8 can cause confusion since the 9.8 was a "later" model with different parts.
It has an old Merc ignition system called a "phase maker".
Under the flywheel you have a High speed coil (winding) - no longer available, a Low speed coil - available ($50) and a condenser - no longer available that feed a pair of points that they called a "maker assembly" - available ($150).
These "feed" your coils, the pair that fire the sparkplugs - those are available at $130 each.
I checked a couple of the sources I use for old/nla/discontinued parts and the ones listed as "no longer available" are not available from them either.
The second "long term" issue with this motor is the carb. It's a very old side bowl Tillotson. There is so few parts available for these that the "can't get" list is three times as long as the "can get" - forget a "repair kit" and there just isn't any jets for them out there.
At least you can get water pump parts for now.
Now, if you can get this going relatively cheaply - assuming what you need is available, you might be able to baby it for a few more years.
But if you need even a coil (at 130 buck), I would be hard pressed to spend the money because if you lose the high speed coil or the condenser you have a 75 pound paperweight.
In this case I agree with the dealer unless this is just a hobby motor for you that you plan on just "fiddling" with. If you are looking for an "everyday motor", this is not a prime choice..
