I bought a new Mercury 15hp in June 1998. Since it is new the motor skip at very irregular intervals while trolling; like a military missing a step during a military march. <br />Also if the motor does not run at the first start it is very difficult to get it started. <br />This had been reported to my local Outboard Marine dealer and repair shop who effect tune-up and the trouble reappear after a while. <br />Incidentally I use that motor every 2/3 years for special fishing trips.<br />Does anybody has experienced that problem in the past. Thanks.