I had a '89 150 black max and it was hard to start the 1st time out each trip. There was a certain sequence it liked and if you varied from it, it was a booger. First you'd have to pump the bulb til it was hard, then you'd have to make sure after backing the boat in the motor was trimmed level. Then you'd have to choke it by pushing the key in and holding it in for a solid 6-8 count, then turn the key in an effort to start the motor. 9 times out of 10 it would not start but it would try to hit. You would then have to advance the throttle in neutral and turn the key again and it would usually start then. If it did you could bring the throttle back to the neutral/starting position and let it warm up. If it didn't start you'd have to go thru the process again and it usually started for sure the 2nd time. Hope this helps.