Epic SX22 Sometimes Hard to start

[utahepic22]

I have a 2002 Epic SX22 that will somewhat randomly have trouble starting. I have to turn it over for a little while longer before it starts. When it does start, the smell of fuel is really strong. Seems like it is really rich. Once it starts, it will run fine. It will do this at random throughout the day on the lake. Any ideas?

[ktdust]

I'm assuming the fuel pumps are working and that you have a spark. It could be the starter contacts. The parts are inexpensive, but the starter is a bitch to get to.

[wakejunky]

some what normal. My SX did it on occasion. Its due to carbon buildup in the combustion chamber. carbon absorbs fuel and when its not a cold start it doesnt add extra fuel. so you are correct in saying it  smells like fuel because your essentially adding enough fuel to overcome the carbon deposits absorbing it (most noticeably on a hot restart) you can use fuel system cleaners like techron or similar.