Help! My 3.5 hp is leaking gas!

Hey guys, I'm new here, and I plan on hanging around.

Stumbled across the website looking for help with my 3.5 Merc leaking gas underneath the carb. I read a couple things about the needle and seat needing cleaning, but I am not too sure how to go about that. Maybe I have all of my info wrong (it's possible, I'm a drummer, not a mechanic). Any info would we great, I am dying to get back out fishing.

Re: Help! My 3.5 hp is leaking gas!

Most likely needs to be cleaned and have some replacement parts maybe.
You would be wise to buy the manual for your motor - online versions and hard copies are available at seloc marine http://www.selocmarine.com/

you will need to remove the carb from engine as stated in your manual
remove the bowl from the carb and clean all METAL parts with carb cleaner (WD40 works, too)
inspect the plastic float.. if it looks worn or looks like it has fuel in it or has holes where fluid can enter the float it will not float properly and needs replaced.

Look at the float pin (you should see a spring and small pin under the float that allows fuel to enter carbs - if it looks like it isn't completely smooth (or has grooves) it needs replaced.
You will want to remove the idle screw and spring as well to clean well in that slot/screw hole.

Last buy a new carb rebuild kit (http://www.selocmarine.com/) to replace all seals/gaskets in the carburetor.

Good luck.