TOPIC: old 71 7.5hp is getting the best of me..

ok i've messed with this old 7.5 hp for my nephew a few times now for minor... well the last time the went to use it.. they had problems starting it and getting it to run.. so i looked at it again today for him.. trying to figure this out.. it wont start unless its in gear..acts like it needs more timing advance.. and even then it barely runs.. like the timing is off?? ive been over the whole ignition system.. it has new insulators. wiring. and points..i feel like im missing something? ive even checked the flywheel to see if anything moved in it.. any sugestions??

is the butterfly opening ?

Yes butterfly is opening... This thing is just acting so strange..
I thought for sure I was going to find a bad keyway..
But that was fine..

Have you tried to start it with only one spark plug lead connected, and the other one placed so it can spark to engine ground?
Try this with each cylinder.
Be sure and use well insulated pliers if you attempt to remove a sparkplug wire while it is running.
also,
disconnect the kill button and try starting it.
or,
Once you have it running, try spraying a short shot of carb cleaner into the carburetor.
If the motor picks up, consider the fuel system.
If, when running at an idle it is spitting fuel mist out the carburetor, but seems to run a bit better as your accelerate consider a broken reed pedal.
What spark plugs are installed?
Is the fuel pump vacuum hose to the crankcase cracked?
doc

i'll try that this weekend when im off again.. all the hoses are new.. carb was rebuilt.. fuel pump was rebuilt.. i'll try spraying some carb cleaner..