Fuel pump or carb issue? 1976 merc 850

[Lessonlearned]

Ive got a 1976 mercury 850 thunderbolt edition, serial number 4366881 which is distributorless. I just attempted a rebuild on the carbs last night and I feel confident that everything went smooth. I started the rebuild of the fuel pump, as so as I flipped it over, the check valves, spring, gaskets and diaphragm fell out. I noticed the screws loosened themselves up so that could have been a huge issue of my motor running properly. But how do i know which way the check valves go? I've tried a few different configurations, and can't get it to start either way. Please help! Joe

 

[Lessonlearned]

Just to bump and recap: Fuel pump rebuilt Both carbs rebuilt Getting spark on all cylinders (checked with timing light while cranking) Good voltage from batteries (currently plugged in 2 bank charger) Checked for fuel in fuel bowls via drainage screws. (Fuel flows out) New fuel pump primer bulb stays rock hard while cranking Ive got 125-135psi compression on all cylinder New stator New switch box New trigger New rectifier New plugs What the hell am i missing here?

 

[Lessonlearned]

I swear that every time i post a problem in here, 10minutes later, i figure it out. I guess my rig knows the power of the iboats forum. . Turns out that my mercury quicksilver check valves were bad out of the package. Put the old one back in, now she purrs like a kitten and fires right up every time. On to the next problem.....damn truck wont start......FML