Found the dreaded water in lower unit fluid when winterizing this year. Had a certified mechanic freelancing do the work, which I regret, but that's another story. The seal kit ordered and installed was correct to my serial number (1B792031), but low and behold, leaked like crazy due to wrong seals. Did some digging with the dealership where I bought the boat and they indicated it was an 859399T13 gearcase. Good news is that I now have the correct seals, bad news is that Mercury indicates that isn't the gearcase on the as-built spec sheet. Dealer is stating they never changed it, original and only owners says it original, nothing shows on warranty history, so there's "no" explanation on the lower to serial number confusion. I've also attached a picture of what appears to be a serial number on the unit, which further confuses those who've viewed it. A T13 replacement gearcase is $1985 and a T29 (standard for my S/N) replacement is double at $3843 through Crowley Marine. What is the difference between a T13 and a T29, in the event I need to replace it in the future? Furthermore, want to know if the T13 is an acceptable/compatible replacement for a T29? Is it possible that it is factory original? Any information would be greatly appreciated?
Thanks!