Re: 1979 6hp
That sounds like corrosion damage. But carbs are usually the last to get damage of this sort. Before you spend any money on the engine, remove the carb and reed plate, check the reeds for corrosion damage, and look at the crank and rods for damage. Check to see that the engine turns over freely. If all is well, try for a used carb from
franzmarine@aol.com. I may have one so if you send me a private message with your email and possibly a photo, I will get back to you.