40hp Mercury 402 1980 Starting problem

[Jawzman]

I am having troubles getting the motor started it turns over no problem but will not start and now it is starting to sputter any suggestions on what I should do to fix this problem im trying to go out by monday so if I can get some suggestions that would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Jason

 

[redjmp]

Re: 40hp Mercury 402 1980 Starting problem

Well if I was you, I would start by pulling the plugs and checking them for fouling etc and then cranking it over a few times without them to make sure it isn't flooded.
And then I would do a spark test with a proper spark tester.
Then a compression test would follow.
If all those are good, I would squirt a shot of gas down its throat and give it a crank.
If it starts then dies, then you would have a fuel problem.
Possibly a clogged filter or a faulty fuel pump.
If it still doesn't start I would check the link and sync for proper timing...