1982 Evinrude 7.5 hp Idle problems and sticky advance plate

[WarthogMan]

I just bought a 1982 7.5 hp Evinrude (short shaft) without checking it out very well. After getting it home I have two problems. I can get it to run but only at an rpm above idle with fine adjustments of the choke (about 1/4 to 1/2 way out). I know she shouldn't be choked to keep her running so suspect the idle circut on the carb may be plugged. Is the best solution to just rebuild the carb and clean her out? Also, the advance timing plate is very stiff to rotate as you twist the throttle grip. I pulled the throttle cable off and that appears to be working correctly and moves easily. The problem is that to rotate the timing plate I think someone put grease in there and it is very hard to rotate. Is the only way to correct this to pull the flywheel, etc. and clean it up? I haven't done that so would appreciate any insight into how far I have to tear it appart to clean it up and get it to rotate freely. Any help on these questions would be greatly appreciated.