hard starting Ted Williams 4.5 hp engine

[canoethebay]

I just picked up a Ted Williams 4.5hp motor for a little project I am working on. The motor is really difficult to start. Once it is started it seems to be running ok(but not great?). It is the first boat motor I have owned but I do have some experience tinkering with lawn mower and atv engines. Any suggestions or a copy of a service manual? Thanks.