mercury 4 horse won't fire

[Brown]

i have an opportunity to purchase a 4hp mercury, mid 1970's with the blue stripes, has compression, spark and fuel but will not fire. the motor sat for a while and was not used. it was winterized prior to storage. what can you tell me about points? and do you think it could be the problem?

 

[steelespike]

Re: mercury 4 horse won't fire

If you have good spark its not likely the points.<br /> Carefully spray some premix in the carb and try it.(dont use starting fluid)<br /> If it starts,check clean and repair the fuel system from tank to carb.