ORIGINAL: cyclops2
This is the first time I have heard of reducing the the advance causing hard starts. It usually makes starting easier and smoother idling. All 2 stroke outboards have VERY retarded timing at start up. The cams are large and unmistakeable as both timing & carburator move to the full speed position.
You are right...I read somewhere that some brand of CD units retard the spark for starting more than others. Maybe his CD unit is retarding the spark too much! If he would post all the details...maybe we could figure it out! Capt,n