Ok ill check the spark tomorrow. This is my first boat and i have no clue what im doing other than what people tell me to do. They tell me to replace something i do it. Sorry if i come off as ignorant.
Take Kimcrwbr1's advice and take a step back. The folks here are great and what he's trying to help you avoid is you wasting money by installing unnecessary parts. Step by step troubleshooting with clear, complete information provided is the best way folks on this forum can help you solve the problem.
Some information needed from a person posting for the first time:
1) Model #
2) What is the compression #'s on each cylinder
3) Does each cylinder have spark that will jump 7/16"
When you say it 'won't hit a lick' what does that mean? Does the starter crank the engine when you turn the key? If yes, does it not try to fire or does it just keep turning?
You said you replaced the fuel pump. Was this a VRO fuel pump or has the motor been converted to a standard pulse pump and you're pre-mixing oil and fuel? If it's VRO did you prime the oil lines and make sure all the oil tank components are in good shape?
Please tell us how you are trying to start the engine.
The proper starting procedure for a cold engine should be as follows:
1) Squeeze the fuel primer bulb until firm.
2) Turn key to the ON position but do not engage starter
3) Press in on the key to activate the primer solenoid
4) Turn the key to engage the starter
5) If the engine doesn't fire within about 5 seconds release the starter
6) Repeat process until it starts.
Here are a couple extra tips.
First, make sure the red lever on your primer solenoid is facing down. It will be behind the air silencer box next to the carbs. If the lever is pointing to the right it puts the solenoid in manual mode and can flood the engine.
You said the carbs have been off and rebuilt. Is this a single carb engine? Did you make sure the throttle linkage is properly aligned so that the butterfly is completely closed in the idle position? If the butterfly is open that will lean out your fuel mixture and make starting a nightmare.
KJ