1969 Mercury 200 20hp outboard

[pip235]

i am having a bit of trouble. i have a 1969 merc 200, 20hp outboard that i am having trouble starting right away, it takes 12 - 20 pulls to get it running. it runs like a top after that, and it will start good after that unless it sits to get cold. i was wondering it a hotter plug would help at all. i am open to suggestions.

thanks

[just learning]

I am far from an expert but just a thought, it sounds to me like a fuel delivery problem. Have you ever tried starting it with some starting fluid? Like I said I'm far from an expert so maybe one of the people with more knowledge can help you more but until then its worth a try.
Good luck.

[JUST-IN-TIME]

when was the lat time u tuned it?