early 70's merc, 9.8 hp carb problem

[gmarshall43]

I have an early 70's merc 110, 9.8 hp. I believe it to be a 1973 model. Most often than not I can't get it to start. If it does start, it won't stay running. I took the carb of to give it a good cleaning. I notice two things. One, the inlet needle in the float boat wasn't moving in and out when I move float up and down. I suspect that is my problem. But I also notice that the choke wasn't spring loaded like the throttle. That is, if I moved it, the spring on the throttle would move it back once I released it. I thought the choke was suppose to do this as well since it has a spring on it, but it doesn't. Of course with it hooked up to the choke cable, it operates like it is suppose to. It is either opened or closed. Can this cause me problems?<br /><br />Thanks