How Many 1962 Evinrude Lark Iv 40 Hp Were Produced

How Many 1962 Evinrude Lark IV 40 HP Outboards Were Produced?

Determining the exact production numbers for a specific model year of a vintage outboard motor like the 1962 Evinrude Lark IV 40 HP is unfortunately extremely difficult, if not impossible. Oem's like Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), the parent company of Evinrude at the time, didn't meticulously record production figures for individual models in the way that modern manufacturers often do. Their record-keeping practices were different then.

Several factors contribute to the difficulty in finding this information:

Challenges in Obtaining Precise Production Data:

• Archival Records: While some historical records might exist within OMC archives (now Brunswick Corporation), access to such records is often restricted or requires extensive research. Even if accessible, sifting through decades of data to find this specific model year's production numbers would be a monumental task.
• Incomplete Records: It's entirely possible that complete production records for this specific model were never kept or have been lost over time due to various reasons like fires, floods, or simply poor record management practices of the era.
• Variations in Model Naming: Subtle variations within the Lark IV 40 HP model itself (different serial number ranges, for instance) might further complicate any search for precise numbers.

Where to Possibly Look for Clues:

Though pinpointing the exact number is unlikely, you can try the following avenues, which might offer some hints:

• Evinrude Collectors' Clubs and Forums: Online forums and clubs dedicated to Evinrude outboards are an excellent resource. Experienced collectors often possess considerable historical knowledge and may have encountered production estimates or anecdotal information regarding this specific model.
• Vintage Outboard Parts Suppliers: Some specialized parts suppliers may have access to historical sales data that, while not precise production numbers, could offer a general idea of the model's popularity and prevalence.
• Online Historical Databases: While dedicated databases specifically for outboard motor production numbers are rare, there might be general historical business databases that contain some information on OMC's production volumes during that period. However, accessing such databases might be expensive and require specific expertise.

The Importance of Serial Numbers:

Even without the exact production number, your outboard's serial number holds significant value. It can help you determine the exact manufacturing date and possibly identify any specific features or variations unique to your motor.

In conclusion, finding the precise production number of 1962 Evinrude Lark IV 40 HP outboards is a challenging endeavor. Focusing your research on the avenues listed above offers the best chance of discovering any available information, albeit possibly estimates rather than exact figures. The serial number on your motor remains a crucial piece of information regardless.