What year is my Mariner

[Ribala]

I have purchased a used 20 hp Mariner manual start outboard and I would like to know what year it is, this is what I know. The motor says "made in Japan for Mariner international Fond Du Lac WS." the serial number on a aluminum plate on the outside of the motor is 653 (this may be the model # ) followed by S11743 which is stamped on the aluminum plate.

 

[budgie14]

the 653 went to 1979,the S is for shortshaft,then the rest makes it 1977,these were early Yamaha motors

 

[H. I. McDunnough]

I get a 20 hp(M) manual ; model 653;(S)short or standard shaft;1977

 

[Ribala]

Thank you both for your reply. Knowing the motor's vintage will help me in ordering parts. Thanx