Starting problem

[novice boater54]

Hi, could someone point me in the right direction?
I'm working on a 1976 mercury 1500 (150HP) outboard.
I apparently have spark when holding shorting plugs to ground, and using a bit of quick start in #2 cylinder I get a bit of a kick but no actual sound of fire.
Also I have fuel dripping from carbs a bit as well as rear of fuel pump housing as it appears the primer wounm't pressurize.
Could this be a couple of problems 1) problem with the fuel pump, 2) problem with the carbs too.
When I crank the engine after putting some either in #2 cylender while cranking it seems to attempt to fire the ehter or like hits a stall spot while cranking like it wants to fire but no actual sound of fire. Tried this in a couple of other cylinders with out any obvious kick noticed?
This motor from what was told to me ran either last year or two years ago.
I'm not that familiar with mercury but have some mechanical and electrical knowledge. I think this fuel pump is mechanical as I don't see any wires going to it?
Thanks for the help in advance.
I'm going to look at the fuel pump too.
Regards,
Ron

 

[novice boater54]

Re: Starting problem

Hi sort of found problem eventually by continuing research and diagnosis.
Motor has low compression on #1 & 3 cylinder while other 4 are close to or over 100PSI. Aslo fuel not getting from carburetor possibly will have to dismantle carbs for a closer look and clean up?
Any idea of how big a job is to re & re pistons and rings if neccessary?

 

[Wingedwheel]

Re: Starting problem

The best thing you could do is get a service manual. That would give you an idea of what your getting into. As with any re-build, skill level and understanding play a big part.

 

[Really Old Guy]

Re: Starting problem

Don't use ether to start! No oil there. Get a manual, before
you go any further!