1995 johnson 88 spl starting issues

[water proof wick]

this is my first post on iboats . I recently purchased a 1995 alumacraft 190 trophy in almost mint condition with the exception of poor running quality , started fine within seconds every time but no power had to run at idle back to the launch . With the help of iboats forum I managed to remove the carbs ,soak , clean , replace jets , and blow compressed air through every hole I found , I went threw this process slow to be sure it was done properly . Both the floats worked and were level from my observation . I replaced the plugs set gap at 35 . replaced fuel line with new claps . The engine looks untouched with the exception of the fuel pump gaskit (between the pump and power head ) missing , I found it under the carbs , so I put that back in . The boat started hard , but it started and idled . Now it runs great , plains off fast , very responsive to throttle adjustments and max rpm its around 5400 , but now it starts hard I have to play with throttle or choke to get it going . any ideas ?? thank you , I just want to add the bottom carb was very dirty and jets clogged

 

[jakedaawg]

In the sticky at top there is a pretty good "how to start my boat" post. Have you read it? Don't take offense please.
Did you replace the fuel lines on the motor side or just the tank side fuel line and bulb?
Also, verify that both throttle plates are closed at idle and open equally when giving throttle, this can be done with engine off via a visual inspection.
Check the top of the primer solenoid to make sure there is nbo fuel leaking there when you pump the bulb.

 

[water proof wick]

I will look at the primer solenoid tomm. I was wonder what that was , thank you