Volvo Penta 3.0L GLP-E Outboard won't idle

[TBriglin]

I have to prime the motor by pushing the throttle forward 3 times to get the motor to start, and it does start...but I have to immediately move it into reverse or forward to get going otherwise the motor dies. It won't idle with the throttle in neutral. If I'm going slow in a no wake zone, I can keep it from dying by giving it just enough throttle to not produce wake, and to not die....but I'm trying to figure out what I can do to adjust the idle. I don't believe I have a fuel/water separator which is what I've read others suggest for other boat motors as a possible issue. I don't believe it's the spark plugs because once it's running, it runs just fine. I also don't believe it's the fuel pump because again, once it's going....it runs no problem. I'm not a marine motor mechanic, I was an Army tank mechanic though so I understand how engines run....at least on land. Anyway, it's literally only the idle that I'm having trouble with. Does anyone have any suggestions?

 

[Droid]

Check compression

 

[AllDodge]

Sounds like the carb needs rebuilt
Carb has an idle circuit and a running circuit, the idle side is clogged up

 

[sandkicker]

Ethanol can produce carb fine jet clogs that won't respond to carb cleaners, only to mechanical removal... i.e. a very small # series drill or wire. Alternatively ( so I've been told) an ultrasonic cleaner bath.