2400rpm max, eventually goes up to 5300rpm

'85 Force 85hp, series: 856X5L

Strange happenings with my engine.
Sometimes when I get it started, starts on the first try these days , it won?t make full rpm.
It idles fine but will only reach 2400rpm wide open. I fiddle with the throttle and the choke. Stop and restart it. Eventually it will run correctly and reach 5300rpm wide open.

? 122psi compression all cylinders
? Butterflies all open
? Number 2 spark plug is clean and shinny, 1 and 3 are dark.


Am I right that a clean spark plug is a sign of no spark or no fuel?

So I'm thinking:
1. Bad coil pack or control box in that cylinder. (Control box is shared with number 1 and it's fine.)
2. Poor fuel delivery to that cylinder. Number 2 carb rebuild.

Re: 2400rpm max, eventually goes up to 5300rpm

You probably not getting fuel to your #2 cylinder. Check your carbs, you may be able to run sea-foam through and see if this helps to unclog it before taking any further steps.