95 Mercury 40hp elpt crank but no start.

[justjake843]

So I've come into ownership of this merc outboard and I'm having trouble getting it running. I've got it to run for maybe a second or two but it then dies and won't start again.
I notice that fuel is leaking pretty bad around the fuel bowl area on the lower carb as well as from the little screw with the spring behind the fuel bowl. I suspect the carb needs to be taken apart and rebuilt , but I'm not too sure and I'd like input from you guys.

1995 Mercury ELPT 40HP 4cyl 2 stroke

 

[racerone]

First thing I would do is a compression test.----Post the numbers here.----Then check for strong spark on each lead.----If those are good then clean carburetors.----Make sure you have a good battery and starter motor.----Install a new water pump impeller before launching the boat.