1988 Mercury 35 HP will only run with mufffs on

[Randy Lambert]

Motor runs only with muffs on but if you drop mtr inot tank it will not start. While cranking it gas will squirt out brass screw on carb. Any suggestions

[Ski]

I guess I would look at the carb first.

[FRANKGLOCK]

I agree ck float setting make sure small ball bearing in pump primer has nor slipped into the spring an causing flooding