Mercruiser identification

[djk31]

Hello,
I just purchased a 1997 fourwinns 18.5ft boat with a mercruiser inboard engine. The boat came with no paper work on the engine, so I'm trying to figure out what type and year of engine I have. The previous owner said it was a 4.3L 190 hp, but would like to confirm. Any help would be appreciated!! Pics of engine are below.



Thanks
dk

 

[o2batsea]

These go by serial number. Look for a serial number on the drive housing. On the engine there will be a tag. Sometimes it's on a metal plate near the starter.
It looks like a V8. I'll hazard a guess that the engine and drive are also from 1997.
BTW, that fire suppression system looks pretty much useless.

In 1997 there was no such thing as ethanol-laced fuel. You will be doing yourself a big favor by replacing any rubber fuel supply hose with new ethanol safe hose. Fuel pump should be OK.
I'd also have new everything. Hoses, belts, tune-up parts (cap rotor condenser points wires plugs coil) filters and fluids.

 

[Bt Doctur]

those valve covers are for a V6 , look at the dist cap and count the wires

 

[djk31]

Thanks for info!