idle timing is After TDC, ( retarded timing)
WOT timing is Before TDC.(advanced timing)
guessing at what the timing is actually doing by looking at the none functional wiper does not help at all
if timing is not close to correct with the wiper pointed at the marks, then I would say it needs replacing.
what does the timing light show the timing at when wiper set to where the motor will run?
I had to replace my CDI due to the idle timing retarded 14 Deg when set to the marks on CDI.
others had jacked with all the carb linkages just to get it to idle, WOT was as problem.
and it did not help that they had drilled out the main jets too.
took me a long time to finally get the motor...
charge every night or get a small generator.
or solar panels.
please do not disturb everyone else with your loud noise on the water,
that would also be helpful with your battery drain
the motors were designed to have them in place, so I would put them back.
there are check valves and just plain nipples on those.
good luck knowing how they are routed.
hopefully your manual shows that
My guess it is a S130TXRU if it really is a 1996.
what the heck are puddling hoses
there should be a round decal on the block next to starter with some numbers/letters to help ID it
since it says thermal switch 2, there should be more than one.
you need to make sure you are looking at the proper switch, and test it to make sure the manual is correct.
I have found things wrong in manuals before
Best I can tell,
the start switch, when turned to the start position sends power to the thermal switch 2 with the brown wire .
if the Thermal switch/motor is cold/closed it heads to the choke solenoid
