Shear pins and stuff

Does anyone know where to buy shear pins in the uk or Europe for a 4hp mariner, also would any 4hp pin fit it, I.E Tohatsu.

Is it possible to fit a 12volt output unit to a "2005 model" mariner 4, if so what is the part called (I have googled all over) and is it easy to fit, do you get fitting instructions with a new unit. (fairly mechanically and electrically minded)

Is it possible to fit electric start? again if so is it easy to fit.

Although it dosen't look like it can take an external tank, is there any problems running a line in where the internal tank outlet feeds the outboard.

What is the difference between a "normal" car battery and a boat battery.

What roughly would the extra fuel consumption be from running at max throttle as opposed to trolling/turtle speed......one third?

Does an 8 horse outboard use twice as much fuel as a 4 at the same speed?

Does using the dearer unleaded fuel (uk) give any performance boost and/or is it better for engine lifespan. (or same/worse).

Is it ok to run it dry or keep it topped up?.

How often should one service it and what does it involve (used 8-10 weekends per year for 10hrs per weekend)

We have another boat now with a teleflex system, all parts seem to be there except the bit to connect the "end steering rod" to the outboard, does anyone know what this part is called (we are using tiller arm at mo)

Sorry about all the Qs but it is the first time I have bought an outboard.

Thanks for any help/advice on any of the Questions.

Dave

As to the battry question, read <http://www.batteryfaq.org> for the full explanation or <http://www.barden-uk.com/faqs-batteries.html> for the dumbed down quick highlights. Remember Google is your friend, the search [marine leisure battery faq lead acid] got both these sites on the first page of results.

You wrote "I cant help you much but does the missing part mount on the rod or the engine?"

I am not sure, the end of the rod can swivel a bit and has a hole in it around twice the size of this "O" and the outboard has two vertical holes (about the same size) in the handle but I dont know if that means anything.

Thank you again.

Dave the novice.