72-73 Mercury 1150 checking some information

[Kailofsouls]

I had another post about fuel pumps. but now I'm on to something else just want to double check my info.

fuel pumps are replaced, carbs cleaned (seats and float needles replaced as well as gaskets). Idle screws set to 1 1/2 turns out.

The problem is I can't get it to start or stay running without raising the neutral throttle lever over half way.
I replaced timing belt last summer so I double checked it it's off to the right 1/2 tooth from what I saw online that is where I want it. Its timed to 2° tdc and 20° tdc for idle and max timing advance. I did that based on a YouTube video showing how to do it not running but power on. He said 5° and 20° but his motor is newer and called for that number in the service manual. Mine calls for 2°.

compression test on all six cylinders was done as my first cranks this year numbers are.

Compression
Cyl #6 : 80-2
Cyl #5: 80-2
Cyl #4: 80-2
Cyl #3: 86-88
Cyl #2: 86-88
Cyl #1: 85-87

seems awfully low to me but it's not been ran since last summer and these are the first cranks I've done this year. Don't know if that has anything to do with it. Also low as they are they are very close together. It was done with a brand new harbor freight compression tester I've seen some mixed reviews on it .

New spark plugs autolite 2872. New plug wires as well.

my question is. Is my info correct and if so is there something I missed and/or why is it not starting?

 

[Faztbullet]

Try a different gauge as those numbers are way low...

 

[Chris1956]

Normally idle pickup timing is 4-6* BTDC. Max spark advance is 21*BTDC.

She should idle at about 900RPM in neutral. Maybe your idle speed is too low?

However, first task is to set the idle mixture on the carbs, in the water, motor warm and in gear. You are looking for smooth acceleration,and a reasonable idle. Use a fresh 50::1 mixture for setting carbs mixtures.

 

[Faztbullet]

If that motor don't see a minium 120psi compression it will never idle or perform correctly no matter the timing..

 

[Kailofsouls]

I was informed by a coworker that what I did was a "dry" compression test so I'll try to get it running to warm it and try again. Attached is a screen shot of my service manual I underlined my timing numbers.

 

[Faztbullet]

Its not going to increase 40psi warm...and get rid of that dang Seloc crap..find you a factory manual for a maxi

 

[jimmbo]

Looking at the pic of the page, Are you in the correct section? I ask because Belt Timing is done prior to any other timing Adjustments. Of course Seloc could have things listed in reverse.

 

[Kailofsouls]

Sorry it took awhile to get back to you all been called back to work. I played with the carbs some more got it started and adjusted idles good now only has a slight twitch every few rpms. Which is smother than my truck lol. I'm pretty sure that compression tester is junk. This is only with muffs on I know I've got more to do once the water warms up.