1. Locating the ID Plate / Sticker

Where to Look:

• The Yamaha outboard’s identification plate or sticker is typically located on the port (left) side of the motor, attached to the transom bracket.
• This plate includes key information such as the model code (e.g., F150), horsepower, shaft length, and sometimes a serial number or date stamp.

2. Understanding the Information on the ID Plate

Depending on the production year of your outboard, the plate/sticker may look slightly different. However, most plates will contain:

1. Model Name/Code
   • Example: F90LB, T50TLR, etc.
   • The prefix (F, T, Z, VF, etc.) and letters after the horsepower rating indicate special features such as 4-stroke (F) or High Thrust (T).
2. Motor Details
   • The model code is followed by various letters and numbers describing features like manual/electric start, tilt/trim options, remote control, and more.
3. Serial Number
   • A six- or seven-digit sequence often stamped on the bracket or the engine block.
4. Shaft Length Letter
   • S = Short (15”)
   • L = Long (20”)
   • X = Extra-long (25”)
   • U = Ultra-long (30”)
   • J = Jet
5. Production Year or MFG Date
   • For older models (pre-2005): The final letter of the model code often corresponds to the production year (see charts below).
   • For newer models (post-2005): A separate stamp or label stating “MFG Date” is located on the transom bracket indicating the month/year of manufacture.

3. Pre-2005 Yamaha Outboards: Decoding the Year by Letter

Yamaha historically used an alphabetical code system to designate the production year. If you have a Yamaha outboard produced roughly between 1984 and 2004, the final letter in the model code can help you identify the year. Below is a commonly used chart:

• 2005 = D
• 2004 = C
• 2003 = B
• 2002 = A
• 2001 = Z
• 2000 = Y

(Some references will list extended year-letter assignments going further back to the 1970s and 1980s, such as 1989 = F, 1990 = D, etc., but these can vary by market.)

Example: If your outboard’s model code ends with “C,” it would correspond to a 2004 model.

4. Post-2005 Yamaha Outboards: The MFG Date Stamp

Starting in 2005, Yamaha changed how they designate the production year on the transom bracket. Instead of embedding it into the model code, they began stamping or printing the specific month and year of manufacture directly on the bracket. You’ll typically see something like:

MFG DATE: 05/06/24

(This would indicate a manufacturing date of May 2024, for instance.)

This newer approach eliminates the need to decode a letter. Instead, simply read the clearly stated month and year.

5. Additional Model Code Prefixes & Suffixes

Yamaha outboards often include one or more letters before (prefix) or after (suffix) the horsepower rating to signify special features or designations. Below are some common ones:

Prefixes

• F – 4-stroke motors
• E – Enduro series (commercial-grade, different gear ratios/powerheads)
• Z – High-pressure direct injection 2-stroke motors
• VF – VMAX SHO (Super High Output) series
• T – High-thrust versions
• L – Left-hand (counter-rotating) gearbox

Suffixes

• H – Tiller handle
• R – Remote control
• T – Power trim and tilt (may appear twice in some codes)
• P – Power tilt with electric start
• E – Manual tilt with electric start
• M – Manual tilt and manual start
• C – Command Link digital controls
• S – Integrated digital electric power steering
• 2 – Pearlescent white (instead of standard grey)

Shaft Lengths

• S = 15” (Short)
• L = 20” (Long)
• X = 25” (Extra-long)
• U = 30” (Ultra-long)
• J = Jet Drive

6. Tips & Troubleshooting

1. If the ID Plate is Missing or Damaged:
   • Check the engine block itself. Yamaha often stamps or engraves the six- or seven-digit serial number into the block.
     
2. International vs. Domestic Variations:
   • Note that Yamaha’s year-letter codes can vary by country or region. Always double-check with your local Yamaha dealer if you see discrepancies.
3. Check Consistency:
   • Match the prefix (F, T, etc.) and suffix codes (L, X, etc.) with your motor’s features (e.g., 4-stroke, high-thrust, shaft length).
   • Ensure the shaft length on the label matches your boat’s transom height requirement.

Happy Boating!