1983 35 hr johnson backfire

[drakeslayer]

the motor is a 35 hr 1983I the motor sounds like it wants to start but then backfires. i got it to start yesterday for about 10 seconds then it died. anything would help. check the plug wires and they are on right no reversed.

 

[haffiman37]

Hook up a spark tester on BOTH plug wires.
Crank and monitor.
The spark should jump:
1-2-1-2-.....
If you at any time have spark at both cylinders at the same time, change powerpack.
Don't have a spark tester, make one:

 

[daviet]

Do as suggested and check the spark, could it be what is called a lean sneeze? Have you moved the low speed needle valve for any reason. Static setting should be 1 1/2 turn open and adjust with engine running. Maybe try opening the low speed needle valve 1/4 turn and see if that helps.