Old merc cranking but not running

[Eric0468]

I just picked up a (I think) 73 merc 402 40hp. Tried to start it quickly realized the #2 cylinder wasn’t getting any spark. Checked the coils. Determined it was the cdi so I replaced that. Problem solved.. new issue. The think won’t start up. It has a new carb that was installed when I hit it. Everywhere that is supposed to be getting fuel seems to be getting fuel. It will sometimes almost sound like it’s gonna go then stop. Other times it’ll shoot a flame out. Give the odd back fire but nothing more than that. Any suggestions?

 

[racerone]

Switch plug wires ?

 

[Eric0468]

you mean new wires? The wires are good.

 

[Eric0468]

Or do you Mean like #1 coil to # 2 cylinder?

 

[racerone]

Well, ---I did not say REPLACE the wires.-----But does spark jump a gap of say 3/8" or more on both leads ?

 

[Tassie 1]

Does that model have the firing order stamped on the jacket next to each plug?

 

[Eric0468]

Yes the sparks both jump the distance. And no tassie I don’t see any sort of firing order.

 

[tacx]

"No tassie"??

 

[Eric0468]

The fellas name that asked about the firing order

 

[tacx]

Ahhh, this is where a simple punctuation like a comma would explain the statment