Compression test values ?---Post them here.----And does the tell tale hose come off the side of the block or the top "---Service bulletin came out in 1994 to move it to the top.
If spark is NOT CONSISTANT it needs to be addressed.-----Weak spark is a major reason for no start.----When ever a motor ( outboard or lawnmower ) came into the shop I used to ask folks ----" a little hard to start "---The usual answer was " yes " ----Trouble shooting and inspection is the path...
Hard to believe to believe you are having this much difficulty.-----The 92 model that I have ( when assembled ) will start easily.----I have about 10 or 12 of these 9.9 / 15 HP motors , various years..----They are easy to trouble shoot.
The belt driven generator was standard on the electric shift models.----Optional on electric start models.-----Your location ?---Used item may be easy to find in Canada.
No ---Modern factory does not use an entry level worker with a spray gun.-----Paint line / electrostatic charge / powder coating / ETC.-----I do not have enough fingers and toes to count how many times I have seen that !!!
Step #1 is a compression test.----Then remove flywheel to clean and set the breaker points.---Replace water pump impeller BEFORE putting motor on a boat.
That is what i said ---no high speed mixture adjustment----Perhaps pull the simple VRO apart for inspection.----Likely the fuel pump donut seal needs replacement.----Air motor is likely OK.
No high speed mixture adjustment.----Are both carburetors closed at idle, yes or no ?-----possibly bump up idle speed.-------Checked flywheel key?---Possible issue with lower crankshaft seal ?
They are really core plugs.-----The design intent is NOT for freeze protection.----Consider yourself lucky if there is no other damage.-----When did you winterize ?----A month before cold weather ?----Halfway through a cold day ?
By all the sanding marks it looks like work / inspection was done at one time.-----Work was halted , project abandoned.----Perhaps in your are there are not many other DRAGONS.-----Bragging rights when restored and sailing will be PRICELESS.-----They say that steel " home built " larger boats...
It will take more time than you think.-----It will cost more beer / wine / whiskey tokens that you can think of.-----Restoration work is expensive.----