1990 E70TLESB fuel primer ball not getting hard, cuts out at high RPM, flooding

I am having some (what I believe are) fuel issues and am looking for some advice before tearing things apart...My engine takes a minute of turning over before it will start and I am highly suspecting it is flooding. Once it is hot, it will restart with no trouble. When I pulled the plugs, they were wet with fuel. The fuel primer ball does not get hard when trying to pressurize the line. I have replaced the complete line (with ball/check valves) from the tank to the engine. I have also replaced the fuel filter. It also stumbles/cuts out when revving over 3000 RPM. It runs fine at low RPM. I have a service manual but am new to these motors. Any idea on where to start first?

Thank you.

Re: 1990 E70TLESB fuel primer ball not getting hard, cuts out at high RPM, flooding

double check the synchronizing of linkage [ spark& fuel ] make sure you have the correct plugs , bring the spark closer to tdc if your manaul says [ example 4-6 degrees ] set timing on 4 degrees , primer bulb not stayin hard , air leak some where

Re: 1990 E70TLESB fuel primer ball not getting hard, cuts out at high RPM, flooding

i am positive i have the correct plugs. i just replaced them along with the wires. i will check the linkage and timing. could the air leak be caused by one of the carbs? i am a newbie to carbs but am confident i could rebuild one if it came down to it.

Thanks!

Re: 1990 E70TLESB fuel primer ball not getting hard, cuts out at high RPM, flooding

could be on any fuel lines while you at it clean the needle & seats in the float chambers i use compressed air to make sure every single little hole is clear also check for gags in the reed valves