How Many 1962 Evinrude Lark IV 40 HP Outboard Motors Were Built?
Determining the precise number of 1962 Evinrude Lark IV 40 HP outboard motors ever manufactured is unfortunately impossible. Outboard motor manufacturers didn't typically keep detailed production records broken down to such specific model years and horsepower combinations in a way that's publicly accessible today. The information simply wasn't tracked with the same level of granularity as it might be in modern manufacturing.
However, we can explore some avenues that shed light on the rarity and collectibility of this particular outboard:
Understanding Evinrude's Production Practices in the 1960s
Evinrude, a brand known for its innovative designs and strong market presence, produced a vast number of outboard motors throughout its history. The 1960s represented a period of significant growth for the company, with numerous models and horsepower ratings in their lineup. This high volume of production across various models makes pinpointing the production numbers for a single model like the 1962 Lark IV 40 HP exceptionally challenging.
Factors Affecting Production Numbers
Several factors influenced the overall production numbers of any given outboard model in that era:
- Market Demand: The popularity of the Lark IV 40 HP at the time directly impacted how many units were manufactured. Strong demand would lead to higher production, while lower interest would result in fewer units being built.
- Production Capacity: Evinrude's manufacturing capabilities and available resources would have placed a limit on how many outboards they could produce in a given year.
- Material Availability: Access to raw materials, components, and parts would also impact production. Any shortages or supply chain issues could have constrained production.
Assessing the Rarity of the 1962 Evinrude Lark IV 40 HP
While we can't give a precise number, the lack of readily available production figures combined with the age of the engine suggests it's a relatively rare collectible item. Finding original, well-preserved examples today indicates that the number produced was not exceptionally high.
Where to Find More Information
For enthusiasts, seeking information about specific Evinrude models, several resources may be helpful:
- Online Forums and Communities: Dedicated boating and outboard motor forums often have knowledgeable members who may possess anecdotal information or insights into the production runs of vintage engines.
- Vintage Outboard Clubs: These clubs frequently specialize in specific brands and often compile historical information about various models.
- Evinrude Historical Archives (if accessible): While unlikely to yield precise numbers for this specific model, exploring potential historical archives may provide a wider context for production volumes during that period.
In Conclusion
Unfortunately, an exact figure for the number of 1962 Evinrude Lark IV 40 HP outboards is unavailable. However, based on the lack of readily accessible production data and the current rarity of these engines among collectors, it’s safe to assume their production numbers were relatively limited compared to other, perhaps more popular, models from the same era.
