The actual year is found in the model number, not the serial number.įor example, 150TXL 78 is a 150hp engine from 1978. If your are still unsure of your engine year, search for your model number on the Johnson 1980-later serial number year chart located here. Depending on the year range your motor falls into, you will find your Johnson engine year information differently.Įngines since 1980 use a two letter code at the end of the model number based on the following key :įor example the 'CE' at the end of 100STL CE indicate that the engine is from '89'. Johnson has changed how they indicate year in the model number several times. Often this plate is also marked with the engine's year too. Your serial number or model number can be found on the engine's mid-section. Not sure about the year of your outboard motor? The serial number can help you determine the year of your engine.