I'm relatively new to Iboats and to boating and would appreciate some suggestions for a solution to a starting problem that I have. I recently purchased a 1989 25 hp 2 stroke Mercury outboard along with a boat and trailer. The motor is clean and looks well cared for. The previous owner run a long fuel line from the motor in the stern to the bow of the boat where he placed the fuel tank. When I initially tried to start the boat, I noticed that the fuel line connection (tank end) was not making a tight fit with the tank connection and the bulb was not staying firm. When I tried to start the motor, it took 12 to 15 pulls to get it going. I replaced the connections at the tank end and now the bulb stays firm. However, I still have trouble getting it started (12 to 15 pulls) after it's been sitting for several hours or overnight (even when the outdoor temperature is extremely hot such as 90 F). However, it starts first pull if it's been running within the past 20 to 30 minutes. Examination under the cover does not show any leaks of fuel and it appears very clean. I have tried starting it with full choke, partial choke and no choke but to no avail. I have good compression and it runs very nice at all speeds when I take it out. It's frustrating to go out fishing early in the morning because it takes so long and so much effort to get it going. Any suggestions as to what I can do would be greatly appreciated.