86 evinrude 15hp hard starting at lake

[recrunner]

I can start motor at home with ear muffs with no problem, 3 pulls, let it idle for a few minutes, make a 15 minute drive to lake, put in lake and it takes at least ten to fifteen pulls to start. Lake water temp 50 degrees. If I do not start at home before putting in lake, minimum 15 to 20 pulls to start. I'm stumped.

 

[racerone]

Start with a compression test.--Also remove 4 screws for the top of intake silencer.---Then make sure choke actually comes on and stays on when you pull on the rope.---Do not rely on the " start " position on the handle.--Turn handle till you hit the throttle stop for max RPM in nuetral.

 

[boobie]

Also check your spark with a spark tester at the lake. Should jump a 7/16" open air gap.