Is my choke working?

[TAF]

I have a 1991 Johnson 30 hp, rope/tiller, 15". I suspect my choke isn't working, but not sure how to test. This motor will not start cold unless I spray a little fuel mix into carb. I have tried starting it with the choke pulled out. I have tried the "pumping choke in and out 3 times" method. When I pump the choke(3 times) the little hose that goes to the top right of carb bulges full of fuel and actually leaks by the zip tie that holds it on.
If I spray some fuel mix in the carb it will start on the first or second pull and run fine afterwards.
Any ideas as to why this would happen?

 

[OBJ]

Re: Is my choke working?

Sounds like the nipple at the carb is plugged. Take a small wire and run down through the hole. May be just a piece of junk there.

 

[TAF]

Re: Is my choke working?

That would explain the hose bulging and leaking by. What is the function of those hoses? One is connected to nipple top rt of carb. one to head?. one to/from choke. I'm just trying to get a better understanding of how the choke works. Also is it a choke or it is a primer you have to pump a few times?