1993 75 hp Merc cuts out / won't start

[tomsinclair]

After 1/2 hour of running at speed my 1993 75 hp Merc just dies. It doesn't slowly die like running out of fuel... it shuts down ASAP. Then, it may start back up or not start. After starting it may run okay for a mile or two OR run for 20 yards and shut down.<br /><br />Also I noticed an oil leak below the 2-cycle resevoir that is dripping onto a few small gauge wire connections. Possibly related?<br /><br />Any ideas would be appreciated.