15 hp floods everytime on cold start

[drspel]

1997 johnson 15 hp floods everytime on cold start, even after letting run itself out of fuel (only cold start) I can run it out and then plug it back in and if has been run that day then it will start right up. but if is the next day or next week then i have flooding problems. tried starting without using auto richener and with still same problem. I have tried to turn it over a few times without fuel hookup and still no good on cold. tried hookup without bulb pump and floods when cold. any ideas as to how to fix this annoying problem or where to start looking. runs fine when warm and when it does start.
help
David

[hornsfan]

Sticking needle valve, maybe?

Might try some carb cleaner first. Otherwise, you may have to open 'er up and clean or replace the needle valve and/or its seat.

Good luck!