Re: trouble starting 1971 mercury outboard
Agreed, the oil leaking from the hub is just unspent fuel mix. As long as there is just a bit of it there is nothing to worry about.
When you cleaned your carbs, I assume you removed and cleaned the main/idle jets. Did you pay attention to how many turns out you gave each? If you're unsure, start with the idle jets. Turn them in until the are closed, do not overtighten. Then back them out a turn and a half. Now start your motor and listen to the idle. One at a time turn the idle screw in until the engine starts to sputter/miss from running lean. Then back the screw out until the engine sputters/misses from running rich. Note the number of turns it took from missing lean to missing rich. Set the screw at the midpoint between the two. Repeat with the other carbs if any.