Mariner 8hp hard to start.. won't idle

[mrsocial]

i've had this little engine for about a year... i use it as my trolling kicker motor for fishing.. it was running great until 2 weeks ago... it's been really had to start.. to the point i've had to start it in forward gear just to get her running... today i changed the gear oil in the leg.. took the carb apart.. cleaned it right out.. (didn't seem to be dirty at all).. i also tested the compression === cylinder 1 -- 66... cylinder 2 -- 85.... whats my next step here? there should not be that big of a difference....

 

[racerone]

Have you looked at the impeller ?---------Compression numbers are not encouraging.-------There is a cover you can remove to look at pistons / rings.-----Find it on the side of the motor.