1975 650 wont start without starting fluid

[randallfowler]

I just bought a 1975 mercury 650 3 cyl it will not start without a shot of starting fluid. Once it started and warms up runs and starts fine. I checked the compression #1 115 #2 145 #3 140 psi is this far enough off to cause this problem. Thanks I have replaced the plugs as well.

 

[savetexomabeaches]

Engines take 3 things to run --- Air, Fuel, Fire --- It runs by adding fuel... So air and spark aren't the issue, its fuel related. Is the choke working?

 

[randallfowler]

Yes the choke works is it possible the gas is weak

 

[flyingscott]

Compression and spark test need to be done. Have you physically verified the choke flappers are closing or are you just hearing the click.

 

[randallfowler]

Yes choke closes compression #1 115 #2 145 #3 140