Carb Removal Merc 50 HP 2 stroke 1972

[twinx1649]

I have a 1972 Merc 500, 50 HP 2 stroke that I'm trying to remove the carburetors on. I'm sure there is a trick to getting the right side nuts off without removing the distributor but it isn't obvious to me. I've owned this boat for years and it only recently started giving me symptoms of a fuel problem when starting. The engine would stall when you first put it in gear and give it throttle. Other than that, the full range of available throttle is smooth. Occasionally, when motoring in a "no wake" zone the engine will die and be difficult to restart. If any of this sounds familiar please feel free to weigh in. Also, it probably time for points, how big a job is that?

Thanks in advance.

Jim Mc.