Yamaha 130HP Outboard Starting Issues - Troubleshooting & Solutions

Question
I have a Yamaha 2003 130HP 2-cycle outboard motor. It's very hard to start. Once I get it running, it starts with no problem. When it cools, it's hard to start again. I did replace the plugs and cleaned the filters. Do you think this is a problem with the choke or maybe the carburetor?  Anything else you can think of?  Thanks so much!

Answer
Hi Sal....Thank you for selecting the undersigned to reply to your question.

Although I'm not a mechanical technician, it sounds like the automatic choke isn't functioning correctly. Best you consult a Yamaha dealer for proper guidance.

Safe Boating
Ron