I had basically the same question and from what I can find it is very common for these to rust very badly. The consensus however is that even when badly rusted these often retain more than enough structural integrity to remain functional and safe to use. It also seems to be the consensus that these are difficult to replace because it requires the removal of the powerhead from the outboard.
The serial / model number sticker on a 1997 model, 25 hp Mercury outboard is located on the starboard, (right) side of the swivel bracket.
Steering caster,a caster wheel which can swivel. And change direction in any way.
The 1997 Chevy Cavalier power steering hose is held in place with swivel nuts. Loosen the swivel nuts by turning them to the left. The power steering hose will come off. Reverse the process to install the new power steering hose.
Usually on a small s steel plate rivited to the swivel mounting of the outboard on which is the Serial No and The engine no
a swivel socket
Mercury Grand Marquis for one and I am sure there are others that I am not familiar with
remove the screws from the swivel bracket that is attached to the roof to replace reverse the process
no this is a part of the steering rack or gear. These are swivel points at the wheel and the steering gear, you have inner and outer tie rod ends.
On the older model Merc's, the serial number and horsepower rating are compared to a model/year chart. This chart has a serial number run listing for the various models manufactured in a particular year. The late model engines now print the year of manufacture on the sticker affixed to the swivel bracket.
top of engine bay 2ft or longer extension 13mm swivel socket
The 1997 Chevrolet Lumina shifter cable is held in place with a swivel nut on each end of the cable. Loosen the swivel nuts and the cable will come off.
Each brake line is held in place with a swivel nut at each end. Turn the swivel nut to the left. The brake line will come off.