Alterscale
Mercury Mark 75H Replica
Article and
Photos by
Greg Terzian
Many of you will remember the classic outboard
models produced by K&O in the 1950’s. These highly detailed models were
scaled proportionally, constructed of die cast metals, and featured electric
motors under the cowl that were powered by outboard batteries. Although
finely detailed, these model outboards were also designed to power model
boats, and as a result, water damage and hobbyist use has kept current
surviving specimens to a minimum.
These die cast metal outboard models gave way
to much more inexpensive plastic replicas in the 1960’s. Although K&O was
not the only manufacturer offering scale outboard engine models at this
time, it was evident that models of that era were more closely related to
toys rather than collectible replicas.
Fast forward to 1995, when Alterscale Models
produces its first replicas – the Johnson and Evinrude V8 and the Mercury
Pro Max series of V6 engines. Constructed of die cast metals and finished
with polished enamels and authentic markings, these models marked the return
of the outboard collectibles.
Our classic Mercury Mark 75H replica was an example of some of
the finest model making I’ve ever seen. The Mark 75H is replicated in every
detail – a testament to the painstaking measurement work Alterscale had
performed on an actual Mark 75H at Mercury Marine.
Unlike the models of the past, these replicas
featured highly detailed powerheads under the removable cowlings, complete
with all wiring and linkages. The support stand (included) houses the two
AA-size cells, which supply power to the engine for spinning the propeller.
It must be noted, however, that these models are not designed for use in
water.
The engine features the correct decal designs,
which are painted on. This small detail really adds to the outboard’s
authenticity. The polished steel wraparound cowl is removed
in the same manner as the original, with three fastening hooks. Under the
cowl, the powerhead features all of the electric components – distributor,
spark plug wires, and the coils – replicated with astonishing detail.
All throttle
and spark advance linkages are replicated as well. The special
midsection that is characteristic of the Mark 75H is perfectly replicated. The
midsection is painted with a high quality, polished enamel, and features the
a fully functional transom bracket assembly. Further down, the Mark
75H Speedmaster lower unit is replicated perfectly, with its correct color and
propeller.
Rounding out the package is the included
display stand which features a button to actuate the electric motor inside
the engine. The display stand offers a classic design as well, this further
enhances the appeal of this model. The actual cardboard packaging for the
model replicates the actual packaging the original Mark 75H arrived to the
dealers in.
It may be noted
that there are some very minor discrepancies in the Alterscale Mark 75H
replica when compared to an actual production engine, however, they do not
detract from the model's appeal. "To make a model of something that
barely existed is a very difficult task", says Sam Cullis, who is a
noted Mercury Mark 75H enthusiast and owner of an actual engine. Make
no mistake though, this replica is as close to the real thing as it gets.
Many pictures can offer you an idea of the
quality of this model, but to fully appreciate it, one has to feel its
weight and see its luster and detail.
Alterscale plans to create several vintage Mercury models in the next few
years. You can reach Alterscale by phone at 865.397.1002 or visit the
website at www.alterscale.com to find out about current and future model
outboard offerings.
For those of us that admire outboard engine
designs, classic and modern, Alterscale’s models present the outboard
enthusiast with a product that is sure to be admired and coveted for
generations.
Special thanks to Sam Cullis for his assistance with this evaluation.
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