Starting an Evinrude 150

[Yboat]

Newbie, Newbie here. New to boating and new to iboat. Over the winter I purchased a 1987 Larson Senza 175 with an Evinrude 150xp on it. Because it was winter, and because I am dumb, I didn't have the seller start it for me. When I try to start it, I hear a motor which I assume is the starter, but it does not fire the engine. I pulled the wires off the plugs and it sounds the same with or without plugs. Would that make sense if the kill switch is involved. I cannot tell if the kill switch is active or if it has been bypassed. The lanyard appears to be missing the key, but I don't know what it is supposed to look like. Mine just has a loop on one end of it and a clip on the other. I tried to get some help from local marine dealers, but they advised that they are 2-4 weeks booked, and I would like to get going sooner if possible. Humbly seeking any help available. Thanks!

[emdsapmgr]

Have you pulled the cowling off to see if the starter is rotating the flywheel when you turn the key to start? You need to check for spark while cranking the engine-a spark checker from an auto parts store should work. The spark on each plugwire should jump a 1/2" air gap on the spark tester. After cranking are the plugs wet or dry? A good idea to check the compression on each cylinder before you put too much $ into the engine.

[Yboat]

Thanks for your assistance. We managed to get it started over the weekend, and now will be trying it on a lake tomorrow. Hopefully won't have too many issues come up at the lake. It is great to have such a forum available. Ron