90 Evinrude 150 XP, idles about 1200rpm and hard to start when cold...timing?

[MXHalofan]

Thinking I better check the timing tomorrow. Which plug is #1 for checking timing? Engine idles high and I verified the carbs are fully closed at idle position. Only thing I can think of is the timing keeping it idling high. Does that sound right to some more exprienced users? Starts first crank when warmed up.

 

[pn]

double check all your fuel lines for tightness. no leakies

 

[emdsapmgr]

The idle on that engine is changed by adjusting the idle timing on the engine. Nothing to do with the carb. You have to set the idle when the boat is floating at normal level in the lake and the engine is running in forward gear. 650-700 rpm's. You can't set it on the trailer.